Much of what we use in our daily lives is powered by lithium ion batteries.

The batteries are used to power smartphones, laptops, tablets, digital cameras, power tools, e-cigarettes, e-bikes, e-scooters, smartwatches, fitness trackers, cordless vacuums and more and knowing how to properly  charge, maintain and dispose of the batteries is important to protect your property and ensure your safety.

Fire Prevention Week 2025’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home” and the Oct. 5 to 11 campaign is the perfect opportunity to educate yourself, says Dauphin Fire Chief Cam Abrey.

“For us in Dauphin, there hasn’t been a whole lot (of incidents involving lithium batteries). We’ve had more from charging cords or recharging items than from the batteries themselves,” Abrey said.

“But it is always a hazard that’s out there.”

Safe charging is one of the major themes of this year’s campaign.

Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface and do not overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

“Do not just leave it plugged in because the batteries can start to overheat that way,” Abrey warned, adding it all begins with buying the proper product when it comes to both the original equipment purchase and when it comes time to buy replacement batteries.

“Lithium batteries don’t last forever and when people start to replace them, everybody’s always cautious about the price and that you can find a better deal online rather than buying directly from the manufacturer. And that’s where the big hazards are coming up is that people are buying products that are not manufactured by the original equipment manufacturer,” he said.

Read the full story in this weeks Dauphin Herald.