Power Up Safely: Fire Prevention Week Focuses on Lithium-Ion Batteries

Power Up Safely: Fire Prevention Week Focuses on Lithium-Ion Batteries

The County of Grande Prairie is marking Fire Prevention Week with a series of public events to educate residents about fire safety and prevention.

This year's Fire Prevention Week takes place from October 4 to October 10, and the theme is Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging is a Superpower.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices people use every day, including smartphones, laptops, tools, e-bikes and toys. While these batteries are generally safe, improper charging, storage or disposal can create a serious fire risk.

“Lithium-ion batteries are part of our daily lives, but it's important to remember they store a significant amount of energy,” said County Fire Chief Trevor Grant. “Using manufacturer-approved chargers, avoiding damaged batteries and keeping batteries away from extreme temperatures can significantly reduce the risk of fire. Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity for everyone to learn how to use these devices safely and protect their families.”

Throughout October, County fire stations will host a series of open houses and community events where residents can meet local firefighters, tour equipment and learn more about fire prevention and emergency preparedness.

Event schedule:

October 3

• 4925 93 Street, Wedgewood Subdivision 
• 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Join the Dunes Fire Department for a BBQ and bring the whole family! Learn about lithium-ion battery safety and enter for prize giveaways. Children can play in the bouncy castle and tour the inside of a fire truck.

October 4

• Clairmont Agricultural Society, 9819 100 Avenue
• 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Meet the Clairmont Fire Department while your children enjoy playing in a bouncy castle, taking a tour through a fire truck, and snacking on a free BBQ meal.

October 5

• Bezanson Fire Station
• 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Enjoy family-fun activities such as a bouncy castle, free BBQ meal, a fire truck tour, and the chance to win a prize draw. 

October 6

• Sexsmith Fire Station
• 6 to 9 p.m.
  • Learn about lithium-ion battery safety through a live demonstration, enjoy playing in a bouncy castle, eating a free BBQ meal, touring a fire truck and the fire hall, as well as a prize draw.

October 8

• La Glace Fire Station
• 6 to 8 p.m.
  • Enjoy snacks and cookies while your children play in a bouncy castle. Learn about fire prevention week and watch a live lithium-ion battery demonstration.

October 9

• Wembley Fire Station
• 5 to 8 p.m.
  • Peek inside a fire truck, tour the fire station, enter a prize draw and learn all about lithium-ion battery safety. There will also be a bouncy castle on site.
    
    
• Hythe Fire Station
• 6 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Enjoy snacks and cookies while taking a tour of a fire truck and the fire station while your children enjoy playing in a bouncy castle.

October 10

• Teepee Creek Fire Station
• 4 to 7 p.m.
  • Learn about lithium-ion battery safety, enjoy eating a free BBQ meal, and explore the inside of a fire truck and the fire hall.

Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety at https://www.countygp.ab.ca/FirePrevention

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Media Contact: 
Trevor Grant 
Fire Chief 
County Regional Fire Service 
780-532-9727