Learn how to charge devices safely during Fire Prevention Week and meet Langley City firefighters at local grocery stores October 5 to 8.
Langley City, BC - Langley City Fire Rescue Service is marking Fire Prevention Week, October 4 to 10, by encouraging residents to take simple steps to charge phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes and other rechargeable devices safely.
This year’s national Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and if they are damaged or charged incorrectly, they can overheat, catch fire, or explode.
“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Captain Perry, Fire Prevention Officer. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”
Simple ways to charge safely
- Use the cord and charger that came with your device, or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge devices on a hard, flat surface, not on beds, couches, or under pillows.
- Stop using a device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smokes, or has a strange smell.
- Unplug devices once they are fully charged.
- Charge larger items, such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools, outside and away from exits whenever possible.
- When travelling by plane, keep charging devices where you can see them and do not charge devices in overhead compartments.
Firefighters to visit local grocery stores
As part of the week, Langley City firefighters will visit grocery stores to help pack grocery bags and share safety information related to this year’s safe charging theme.
- October 5, 10:00 am, No Frills, #70 – 20150 Langley Bypass
- October 5, 2:00 pm, No Frills, 5501 204 Street
- October 6, 3:00 pm, Safeway, 20871 Fraser Highway
- October 7, 3:00 pm, Save-On-Foods, 20151 Fraser Highway
- October 8, 3:00 pm, Safeway, 6153 200 Street
Residents can learn more about Fire Prevention Week and safe charging at www.fpw.org.
For local fire safety information, visit langleycity.ca.
Media Contact:
Ram Chungh
Manager, Communications and Public Engagement
604.240.3101
rchungh@langleycity.ca