Hutchinson Fire Department highlights battery safety during national prevention week

HUTCHINSON — The Hutchinson Fire Department is observing Fire Prevention Week Oct. 5-11 with a focus on the growing risks associated with lithium-ion batteries commonly found in everyday devices.

This year's national theme, "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home," addresses safety concerns as rechargeable battery-powered products become increasingly prevalent in households.

Fire officials are urging residents to follow three key safety practices when using devices with lithium-ion batteries.

First, consumers should purchase only listed products bearing safety certification marks such as UL, ETL or CSA. Second, users should charge devices safely by following manufacturer instructions, using original charging cords and avoiding soft surfaces like beds or couches. Devices should be unplugged once fully charged.

Third, lithium-ion batteries must never be disposed of in household trash, as they can ignite fires. The department recommends taking used batteries to certified recycling locations, which can be found at call2recycle.org.

The Hutchinson Fire Department emphasized that simple precautions can prevent serious emergencies. Residents who suspect a fire hazard should immediately call 911.

Fire Prevention Week has been observed nationally since 1922, commemorating the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.