Midland Fire Department Celebrates Fire Prevention Week with Open House

September 26, 2025 - The Midland Fire Department (MFD) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote Fire Prevention Week October 5 - 11 with the annual Fire Prevention Open House and other fire safety activities.

MFD will host its Fire Prevention Week Open House on Saturday, October 11 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Fire Station One, located at 816 E. Haley St. The community is invited to attend and enjoy interactive and informative activities for all ages and meet first responders from Midland Fire Department, Midland County Emergency Management, and Dow Emergency Services and Security as well as area companies who specialize in services needed after a fire or other emergency.

This year's campaign, "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home," highlights the importance of safely buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are found in many everyday devices such as smartphones, tablets, power tools, lawn equipment, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, toys, and more. "Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and just about everywhere," said Fire Marshal John Jurek. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home and identify which devices use these batteries.

MFD offers these key lithium-ion battery safety tips and guidelines:

• Buy only listed products.
  • Before purchasing 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, this indicates that the product 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 charger and cords that came with the product and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  • If you need a replacement charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one they've approved.
  • Charge devices on a hard surface. Don't charge devices on beds, couches, or under a pillow.
  • Don't overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it's fully charged.
• Recycle batteries responsibly.
  • Never toss lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins.
  • Recycling your device or batteries at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit www.call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Midland, contact the Midland Fire Department at (989) 837-3410 or visit www.cityofmidlandmi.gov/fire. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, visit www.fpw.org. For fire safety fun for kids, visit www.sparky.org.