October is National Fire Prevention Month, with National Fire Prevention Week being observed Oct. 5-11.
This year’s 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. Anything with a lithium-ion battery — phones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools — can become a fire hazard if it’s not charged safely.
Always use the charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. If the cord only works when you bend it just right, it’s time to replace it.
Charge any lithium-ion battery device on a hard surface — never on your bed, couch or under a pillow. And don’t overcharge. Once it’s at 100%, unplug and move on.
Before you buy anything with a lithium-ion battery, do your homework. Check the packaging and product for a mark from a nationally recognized testing lab — that stamp means it meets real safety standards.
A lot of products sold online and in stores don’t, and that can seriously increase your risk of fire.
Charging something big like an e-bike, scooter or power tool with a lithium-ion battery? Do it outside. Use a flat, dry area away from direct sunlight, anything wet, kids, or tripping hazards. And make sure your bike or device is secure — so it doesn’t fall while charging.
Don’t toss lithium-ion batteries or devices in the trash or regular recycling bins — they can start a fire. Drop them off at a legit battery recycling spot — it’s safer and way better for the planet.
This yearly observance was established to remember the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred in 1871. It 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 Oct. 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on Oct. 9, 1871.
While the Great Chicago Fire was the best-known blaze to erupt during this fiery two-day period, it wasn’t the largest. The most destructive forest fire in American history is the Peshtigo Fire. The fire, which also occurred on Oct. 9, 1871, roared through northeast Wisconsin, burning down 16 towns, killing 1,152 people and scorching 1.2 million acres before it was done.
The Peshtigo Fire began when several railroad workers clearing land for much needed tracks unintentionally started a brush fire. Soon the fast moving flames were raging across the land. It was the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, that suffered the worst damage. Within an hour, the entire town had been destroyed.
James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a nonprofit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi. The website is www.wildlifemiss.org.
