Manhattan Fire Department
Photo Courtesy of MFD
The Manhattan Fire Department will host its annual Open House on Sunday, October 12, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Firehouse #1 located at 2000 Denison Avenue. There will be many interactive demonstrations for all ages, including rides on Old Engine 1, practicing escaping out of a window, learning about the importance of working smoke alarms, and lithium-ion battery safety. Fire trucks, firefighting tools & equipment, drones, and much more will be on display throughout the event. Kids will have the chance to participate in a firefighter physical skills course to see if they have what it takes to be a firefighter. A live side-by-side fire demonstration that shows the effectiveness of home fire sprinklers will take place at 1:30 p.m.
During the week of October 5-11, the Manhattan Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week (FPW) 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.
Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode if not used correctly or if damaged. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere, so it is important to know what you can do to reduce the risk of fire associated with them,” said Jake Powell, Fire Marshal.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent home fires and 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 cords 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. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
The Manhattan Fire Department encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety.” Resources and information can be found at the open house or at fpw.org.
