Fire Prevention Week: Know the risks of Lithium-ion batteries

Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week (FPW), taking place Oct. 5–11, 2025. The campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-ion batteries in your home,” highlights the importance of buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely.

Most electronics people use every day—including smartphones, tablets, laptops, e-cigarettes, power and lawn tools, and e-scooters—are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, nearly all rechargeable devices rely on this technology.

“Lithium-ion batteries are a growing fire safety concern,” said Kelli Ireland, Fire and Life Safety Educator, Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services. “We need to keep raising awareness about the risks and help residents understand how to use, charge, and dispose of these batteries safely. When mishandled, they can be extremely dangerous.”

Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services offers these key battery safety tips and guidelines:

Buy only listed, safety certified products:

• Look for a certification stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product. This indicates the product meets important Canadian safety standards.
• Be cautious with online or discounted purchases, as many products may not meet these standards and could increase fire risk.

Charge devices safely:

• Always use the charging cords and equipment provided by the manufacturer.
• If replacement chargers or batteries are needed, purchase only from the manufacturer or an approved supplier.
• Charge devices on a hard, flat surface. Never charge them on a bed, couch, or under a pillow.
• 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. Visit recycleyourbatteries.ca to find a recycling spot in Medicine Hat.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke lithium-ion batteries, visit fpw.org.

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media@medicinehat.ca