Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 5 to 11, 2025

This year’s national Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” works to educate everyone about using these batteries safely. The campaign stresses how important it is to buy, charge and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries.

St. Catharines Fire and Emergency Services conducts special events and public education activities throughout Fire Prevention Week, as well as throughout the month of October. This page will be updated as activities are finalized.

Fire Prevention Week activities throughout October

Oct. 5: Niagara Ice Dogs’ Safety Display

• Fire Prevention officers will be there to educate and promote fire safety around lithium-ion batteries.

• See Sparky the Fire Dog and the Niagara Ice Dogs’ mascot Bones rappel from the ceiling as the IceDogs host the Barrie Colts at 2 p.m. at the Meridian Centre, 1 David S. Howes Way.

Oct. 8: Niagara Pen Centre

• Stop by and chat with our Fire Prevention Team at The Pen Centre, 221 Glendale Ave.

Oct. 18: Pumpkinville

• Fire Services will be at Pumpkinville from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a fire truck promoting fire safety at Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm, 650 Read Rd.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are found in many common devices, including e-bikes, mobility scooters, e-cigarettes, vacuums, lawn equipment, smoke alarms and toys. Certified lithium-ion batteries that are properly charged, used and disposed of are generally safe. Overcharged, modified or damaged batteries are not safe and can cause a fire or even explode. Take lithium-ion battery risks seriously. Follow the guidelines and stay safe.

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory such as UL / ULC.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage of devices.
• Only use batteries and charging cords that are designed and approved by the manufacturer for the device.
• Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed or on a couch.
• Avoid overcharging devices – unplug when the device reaches 100 percent.
• Power or lawn tools? Always charge outside in a cool, flat, dry spot.
• Do not place batteries in direct sunlight or hot vehicles.
• Store lithium-ion batteries away from anything that can catch fire.
• Avoid crushing, bending or dropping a device or charger.
• Stop using the battery if you notice any of the following: odour, change in colour, change in shape, too much heat, leaking, or noise coming from the battery. Follow your home escape plan and call 9-1-1 once safely outside.
• Batteries are household hazardous waste and should not be placed in a Garbage Bin, Blue Bin or Green Bin for disposal. Residents can recycle and drop off batteries free of charge, provided they follow the necessary instructions as part of the Niagara Region's waste management program. Used batteries can be taken to your local recycling depot or nearby store for disposal.