Halifax Fire Department Promotes Lithium-Ion Battery Safety During Fire Prevention Week
Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency is urging residents to follow safe charging and disposal practices for lithium-ion batteries during Fire Prevention Week, running from October 4 to 10 under the theme “Charge Into Fire Safety – Safe Charging is a Superpower.”
Fire Prevention Week in Halifax runs from October 4 to 10, with this year’s campaign themed “Charge Into Fire Safety – Safe Charging is a Superpower.” Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) is using the week to promote safe practices around lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires in homes and communities.
HRFE advises residents to use only manufacturer-approved chargers and cords when powering their devices. Electronics should be charged on hard, flat surfaces such as tables, desks, or bare floors rather than on soft surfaces. For larger items like e-bikes, e-scooters, and power tools, HRFE recommends charging them away from doors, hallways, and stairs while following the manufacturer’s instructions. Residents are also advised to unplug devices once they are fully charged.
The department outlined several warning signs that indicate a battery may be failing. If a device becomes very hot, swells, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds, usage should stop immediately. If a battery is on fire, smoking, popping, or hissing, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.
Proper disposal is another key focus of the campaign. HRFE warns that lithium-ion batteries must never be disposed of in regular garbage or recycling collection because they pose fire risks in garbage trucks and waste facilities. Following these guidelines is intended to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and support safer homes and communities across the Halifax Regional Municipality.