Midland Fire urges safe lithium-ion battery charging during Fire Prevention Week

Midland residents are being urged to charge, store and dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely, as the town's fire department marks Fire Prevention Week with a warning that battery fires are becoming a growing hazard in Ontario.

The reminder comes during Fire Prevention Week, which runs October 4–10. This year's theme, "Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower," highlights the rechargeable batteries found in everyday items such as cellphones, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, mobility devices and toys, according to a Town of Midland news release.

The department is encouraging residents to take simple precautions when charging devices at home.

"The Office of the Fire Marshal has identified a growing concern with lithium-ion battery fires across Ontario, and Midland is no exception," said Midland Fire Chief Richard Renaud. "These fires burn with extreme intensity, develop rapidly, and can be difficult to extinguish. A battery fire can progress much like gasoline on a fire, giving occupants very little time to react."

Renaud's comments were included in the Town of Midland news release issued for Fire Prevention Week.

Proper disposal is part of the safety message. Lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in household garbage or curbside recycling, the release said.

Midland-area residents can instead drop off batteries of all types at the North Simcoe Waste Drop-off and Household Hazardous Waste Depot. Additional battery recycling locations can be found through RecycleYourBatteries.ca, the Town of Midland said.

More information about Fire Prevention Week, including further lithium-ion battery safety tips, is available through the Fire Prevention Week campaign at FPW.org.

The town's notice comes as Midland prepares to open voting for the municipal election. Internet and telephone voting begins Tuesday, October 13 at 10 a.m. and will be available around the clock until Voting Day closes on Monday, October 26 at 8 p.m. Eligible voters can cast a ballot online or by phone from any location during the voting period.

Residents with rechargeable devices at home — from e-bikes to cordless tools — are encouraged to review their charging habits and make sure old batteries end up at a proper drop-off location rather than in the trash.