During Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 5 to October 11, the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) is placing a strong emphasis on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries. This year’s campaign, titled “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” serves as a crucial reminder for residents of Tennessee to take specific precautions regarding these widely used power sources.
To ensure safety, individuals are encouraged to purchase only certified products that meet standards set by organizations such as UL, ETL, and CSA. When it comes to charging these batteries, it is vital to use manufacturer-approved cords, avoid the risk of overcharging, and always charge batteries on hard surfaces to prevent potential hazards. Additionally, proper recycling of batteries is essential; they should never be disposed of in regular household trash.
Lithium-ion batteries are found in numerous everyday devices, but they can pose significant risks if they are damaged or improperly handled, leading to overheating or even fires. The SFMO also highlights the critical role of functioning smoke alarms in homes, noting that they can reduce the likelihood of fatalities in house fires by more than 60%. Since the inception of the “Get Alarmed, Tennessee!” initiative in 2012, the program has successfully installed free smoke alarms, contributing to the preservation of over 500 lives.
For those seeking further safety information or wishing to request complimentary smoke alarms, the SFMO encourages visits to their website at tn.gov/fire, where additional resources and guidance are readily available.