The St. John’s Regional Fire Department is reminding the public to charge electronic devices properly as Fire Prevention Week kicks off.
Portable devices like phones, tablets, tools, and e-scooters all carry rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which the department says can explode or catch fire if not charged properly.
They’re reminding the public to use only approved chargers that come with the device or are approved by the manufacturer.
They say to always charge devices on a desk or table, never on a bed, couch, or pillow, and to unplug it if it gets hot or starts to swell.
They say to plug in large-scale items like e-scooters and tools outside and far from exits. And if your device does catch fire, call 911.
The department is hosting a number of events to celebrate Fire Safety Week, a full list of which can be found at VOCM dot com.
There will be an open house at West End Fire Station, 215 Blackmarsh Road today, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Members of the SJRFD will be visiting schools in the region and talking with kids about fire safety as well as conducting and evaluating school fire drills.
Children between the ages of seven and twelve years of age (Grades 4,5 & 6) are eligible to enter the “Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest.” To enter, children must create an 8 ½ x 11 poster, using the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower”.
A fire safety night will be held on Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive with trucks, games and prizes.
