FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The Allen County Department of Environmental Management (ACDEM) and the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) are teaming up again for Fire Prevention Safety Week. They say that from phones to power tools, there are things we should know and can do to stay safe.
Officials are especially warning of the dangers of lithium-ion batteries that are in most of the electronics we use in our homes every day.
ACEDEM released the following:
The Allen County Department of Environmental Management (ACDEM) and the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) are teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 100 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It highlights how important it is to buy, charge and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient and they’re just about everywhere,” said Stacie Hubbert, ACDEM Director. This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps bring awareness to the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge and Recycle Safely approach.
Buy only listed products.
When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely.
Always use the cables that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Free battery recycling (5 pounds per month) is available at Do it Best, Batteries Plus or at Tox Tuesday and Tox Saturday collection events at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
Remember to tape the terminal ends with clear tape before recycling. This neutralizes any remaining charge ensuring the safety or people, vehicles and facilities.
Local officials encourage all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™.”
For more information about lithium-ion battery safety, click HERE
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