October 5–11, 2025 marks Fire Prevention Week, and this year’s theme — “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home” — focuses on something we all use daily: rechargeable batteries.
We met with Arthur Willins, Fire Prevention Officer with the Kennebecasis Valley Fire Department, who shared how small changes in how we buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries can prevent big problems at home.
Why Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Matters
From smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools, lithium-ion batteries power much of our modern life. While these batteries are normally safe, improper use, damage, or disposal can lead to overheating, fires, or even explosions.
Arthur Willins emphasizes:
“These batteries make our lives easier, but they also need to be treated with care. Understanding how to use and charge them properly keeps everyone safer.”
Arthur’s 4 Key Safety Tips
Here are four simple messages from Fire Prevention Officer Arthur Willins to help keep your home safe this week — and every week:
Buy Certified Products
Only purchase lithium-ion powered devices that are certified by nationally recognized testing labs such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This ensures the product has passed safety testing.Charge Safely
Always use the manufacturer-approved charger and cable. Charge on a hard, non-flammable surface, away from beds, couches, or pillows. Never charge under blankets or when you’re asleep.Inspect Regularly
If your device feels hot, smells strange, swells, or changes shape, unplug it immediately and stop using it. Move it away from anything that could catch fire and call 911 if necessary.Recycle Responsibly
Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the garbage or recycling bin — they can ignite and cause fires in trucks or waste facilities. Instead, drop them off at a designated recycling center.
Visit Call2Recycle.org or RecycleYourBatteries.ca to find a location near you.
Community Fire Prevention Events
Many local fire departments — including those in Saint John and Halifax — will host open houses and educational events during Fire Prevention Week. Residents can meet firefighters, explore fire trucks, and learn about fire safety in interactive ways.
Be sure to check your local department’s website or social media for event times and details.
A Simple Reminder from Higgins Insurance
This week is a great time to check how you’re using and charging your household devices. These quick actions make a big difference in keeping your family and property safe:
Replace any damaged cords or chargers.
Make sure your smoke detectors are working.
Unplug devices when they’re fully charged.
Recycle batteries safely.
At Higgins Insurance, we’re proud to support Fire Prevention Week and our local fire departments for their dedication to protecting our communities.
Stay Safe. Stay Informed.
Fire safety starts with small, smart habits. By following these lithium-ion battery safety tips, you’re helping protect not just your home — but everyone around you.
For more information, visit FirePreventionWeek.org or contact your local fire department.