Cochrane Fire Services, in partnership with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is participating in Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 4–10, 2026.
This year’s theme, Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower, focuses on the safe use and charging of lithium-ion batteries and the simple steps residents can take to help prevent fires at home.
Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, toys, power tools, e-bikes and e-scooters. While convenient and efficient, these batteries store a significant amount of energy in a small space. If they are damaged, overheated or charged incorrectly, they can create a serious fire risk.
Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity to build safer charging habits and take a closer look at how battery-powered devices are being used throughout the home.
Make safe charging part of your routine 🔌
Cochrane Fire Services encourages residents to follow a few simple steps each time they charge a device:
- Choose certified products: Look for devices, batteries and chargers that have been tested and certified to meet recognized safety standards.
- Use the right charger: Use the cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge on a hard, flat surface: Avoid beds, couches, pillows and other soft surfaces that can trap heat and restrict airflow.
- Unplug when charging is complete: Disconnect devices once they are fully charged.
- Watch for warning signs: Stop using or charging a device if it becomes unusually hot, swells, smells strange, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds.
- Take extra care with larger batteries: E-bikes, e-scooters and power tools store more energy. Charge them away from exits and combustible materials and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
For more detailed information about lithium-ion battery safety, safe charging practices and Fire Prevention Week, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week website at fpw.org.
Fire Prevention week events in Cochrane 📅
Throughout Fire Prevention Week, firefighters will be out in the community sharing practical safety tips and connecting with residents.
- Oct. 3: Open house at Station 151, 1–3 p.m.
- Oct. 5: Fire safety presentation at Seniors on the Bow, 2–3:30 p.m.
- Oct. 6: Coffee with the Crew at Westside Tim Hortons, 9–10 a.m.
- Oct. 9: Community barbecue at the Cochrane Legion 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Recycle batteries responsibly 🔋
Safe battery use doesn’t end when a battery reaches the end of its life.
Recycle old batteries through a certified battery recycling program. Find a battery drop-off location and learn more about safe battery recycling at call2recycle.org.
Colour your way to a behind-the-scenes fire hall tour 🎨
Cochrane’s young artists are invited to take part in our Fire Prevention Week colouring contest. One winning family will receive a personalized tour of Cochrane Fire Station 151, including a behind-the-scenes look at the fire hall and the work of Cochrane firefighters.
How to enter:
- Download and print the Fire Prevention Week colouring page.
- Colour it and add your contact information.
- Add your contact information.
Submit your masterpiece by:
- Dropping it off at Station 151, or
- Scanning and emailing it to fire.prevention@cochrane.ca
Entry deadline: October 20
One lucky family will be randomly selected and contacted on Oct. 26 to claim their fire hall tour.