National Fire Prevention Week 2025

National Fire Prevention Week runs from Oct. 5 to Oct. 11. This year's theme is "Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home." The campaign highlights the importance of safely buying, charging and recycling lithium-ion batteries to prevent fires.

Lithium-ion batteries power many household devices, but improper use or disposal can pose serious fire hazards. Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) encourages residents to follow these safety tips:

• Look for certification marks: Not all retailers sell items that have certification marks. Look for items marked with UL, ELT, or CSA when buying devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. These marks mean the device has been tested and meets nationally recognized safety standards, helping reduce the risk of fires hazards.

• Charge safely: Only use the charger that came with the device and charge on a hard service. Don't overcharge your device. Unplug it when the battery is fully charged.

• Inspect batteries: Check your device regularly for damage and if your battery or device smells strange, gets hot while charging, changes shape or colour, or makes noises, stop using it right away. If it begins to spark or smoke, and it's safe to do so, move it away from anything that can catch fire, follow your escape plan and call 911. 

• Recycle responsibly: Lithium-ion batteries cannot be disposed of in weekly waste or recycling collection as they pose a fire risk for garbage trucks and waste facilities. For safe disposal options, visit halifax.ca/recycle

HRFE will run its annual Fire Prevention Week contest from Oct. 5 to 11. Visit our website to learn more about participating and winning prizes.