Observe Fire Prevention Week by Charging into Safety

Sheridan Fire-Rescue is encouraging residents to practice safe charging habits during Fire Prevention Week and throughout October’s Fire Prevention Month.

This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops, cordless tools, electric bicycles and other everyday devices.

Sheridan Fire-Rescue Fire Chief Gary Harnish appeared on Sheridan Media’s Pulse and said most fires concerning lithium-ion batteries begin while the battery is being charged.

Chief G. Harnish 

Harnish urged residents to use chargers supplied or approved by the manufacturer and charge devices on hard, flat surfaces rather than beds or under pillows and blankets. He also said people should stop using any batteries that swell, leak, become unusually hot, smell strange or make popping or hissing sounds.

The campaign aims to prevent fires by helping people recognize problems before they become emergencies.