Parkland County Fire Services celebrate Fire Prevention Week

PARKLAND COUNTY -- Parkland County Fire Services is inviting residents to join them in celebrating Fire Prevention Week.

For this year's theme, "Safe Charging is a Superpower", the focus will be on public education relating to the safe use and charging of lithium-ion batteries. Robert Malchow, Fire Chief with Parkland County Fire Services, says types of batteries can present various safety concerns.

"It really focuses on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries, and how to charge them," said Chief Malchow. "So, items you find in your house, like a cell phone, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, and a lot of children's toys. As technology becomes a bigger part of everybody's life, it's important to understand how the safe charging of these devices can reduce the risk of fire in your home."

For safe charging, he recommends using the charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer, and to always charge devices on a hard, flat surface such as a table or desk, and not on a bed, couch, or under a pillow. Residents are asked to stop using a device if it becomes very hot, begins to swell, smokes, or has an unusual smell. Chief Malchow notes that the local fire department has seen first-hand the dangers of unsafe charging and usage of lithium-ion batteries.

"We have seen improper charging of a laptop under a pillow," said Malchow. "This started a bed on fire in a residence -- luckily, it was contained to the bed, but we have seen improper charging result in fires." 

As part of Fire Prevention Week, Parkland County Fire Services will be hosting a trio of open houses on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. These will take place at Parkland Village Fire Station, West Central Fire Station, and Tomahawk Fire Station. Residents are invited to stop in for a visit, learn more about fire prevention, and enjoy a complimentary lunch of hot dogs, chips, and a drink. Everyone is welcome and there is no cost to attend.