October is Fire Prevention Month

Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 fire that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871. There are many theories as to how the fire erupted. The most popular theory is that Mrs. O’Leary’s cow kicked over a lamp, setting first the barn, then the entire city on fire.

Since 1922, fire prevention week is observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9^th falls. Each year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announces a Fire Prevention Week theme to help identify our nation’s most significant fire threats. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety” — focuses on the safe use of battery-powered devices and the growing need to understand fire risks in our technology-filled lives. The Columbus Fire Department offers these easy steps to prevent battery related fires:

Charge into Fire Safety: 3 Steps

Buy only listed products. 

• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
•  Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.

Charge devices safely.

• Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

Recycle batteries responsibly.

• Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start fire.
• Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.

The Columbus Fire Department encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™.

While safe practices and active fire prevention are the best measures to avoid a residential fire, the Columbus Fire Department also recommends that every home have working smoke alarms. Every home should also develop and practice a residential fire escape plan.  If you and your family need assistance with home fire escape planning or are in need of working smoke alarms, please contact the Columbus Fire Department at (812) 376-2679.