Preventable Fires on the Rise: County Urges Safe Battery Use During Fire Prevention Week™
Preventable Fires on the Rise: County Urges Safe Battery Use During Fire Prevention Week™
The County of Grande Prairie is experiencing a troubling trend: an increase in house and landfill fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. These preventable fires are driven by improper use and disposal of everyday items—like children’s toys and power tools—that contain the battery.
From October 5 to 11, 2025, the County Regional Fire Department is joining forces with the National Fire Protection Association to raise awareness around this year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign aims to help residents recognize the risks and adopt safer habits.
“Fire Prevention Week reminds us that fire safety begins at home,” says Regional Fire Chief Trevor Grant. “Lithium-ion batteries are present in nearly every household, yet many residents are unaware of the associated risks.”
The County has seen a rise in fires caused by batteries that were purchased without a safety certification mark, charged using incorrect or incompatible cords, and disposed of in regular household garbage instead of being recycled properly.
To reduce the likelihood of battery-related fires, residents are encouraged to:
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Purchase certified products that display recognized safety marks
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Use manufacturer-approved charging equipment and avoid overcharging
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Store batteries in cool, dry locations, away from flammable materials
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Recycle batteries responsibly at designated facilities
Throughout Fire Prevention Week™, residents are invited to attend events hosted by the County Regional Fire Service where local firefighters and staff will share practical tips on lithium-ion battery safety.
Event schedule:
Saturday, October 4
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Dunes Fire Department
Located at the greenspace within the subdivision of Wedgewood, on 49 Avenue and Wedgewood Drive.
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Free barbeque, bouncy castle, and fire truck tour
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Wembley Fire Department’s 75th Anniversary Celebration
Fluid Pro Recreation Arena
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Purchase tickets here
Sunday, October 5
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Clairmont Fire Station
Community Services Building at 10808-100 Avenue
1 p.m. to 3 p.m
Free barbeque, bouncy castle and fire truck tours
Monday, October 6
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Bezanson Fire Station
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Free barbecue and bouncy castle
Tuesday, October 7
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Sexsmith Fire Station
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Free barbeque and bouncy castle
Wednesday, October 8
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La Glace Fire Station
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Junior firefighter relay, lithium-ion battery demonstration, and refreshments
Friday, October 10
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Hythe Fire Station
6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Bouncy castle and refreshments
Saturday, October 11
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Teepee Creek Fire Station
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Free barbeque
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The Beaverlodge Fire Station will be visiting schools and the Amisk Court Senior’s Apartments throughout Fire Prevention Week.
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The Clairmont Fire Station and Dunes Fire Station will be visiting the Clairmont Community School, Harry Balfour School and Whispering Ridge Community School throughout October, teaching students about the Learn Not to Burn Program.
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Media Contact:
Trevor Grant
Fire Chief
County Regional Fire Service
780-532-9727
Contact Us
County of Grande Prairie
Administration Building
10001 - 84 Avenue
Clairmont, AB
T8X 5B2
Phone: 780-532-9722
Fax: 780-539-9880
Email: info@countygp.ab.ca
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