Cochrane Fire Services, in partnership with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is proud to participate in Fire Prevention Week, October 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 are found in many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, toys, power tools, e-bikes and scooters. While these batteries are convenient and efficient, they store a significant amount of energy in a small space. If they are damaged, overheated or charged incorrectly, they can become 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.
Finally, recycle responsibly by taking old batteries to certified recycling facilities, such as those listed on call2recycle.org.
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 - leaving devices plugged in longer than necessary can increase heat and put additional stress on the battery.
- 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.
Safe choices can help prevent fires
A few small changes in everyday charging habits can make a meaningful difference. Use the right charger, give devices room to release heat, watch for signs of battery damage and unplug when charging is complete.
Fire Prevention Week is also a good time to make sure smoke alarms are working throughout your home and that everyone in your household knows what to do if there is a fire.
For more information, safety tips and Fire Prevention Week resources, visit fpw.org.
Fire Prevention week events in Cochrane
Throughout the week, firefighters will be out in the community sharing practical safety tips:
- To be determined
Follow the Town of Cochrane on Instagram and Facebook throughout October for daily fire safety tips.
Fire prevention week colouring contest – win a behind-the-scenes firehall tour! 🎨
Unleash your creativity and colour your way to an exclusive experience at Cochrane Fire Services! One lucky family will win a personalized tour of Station 151, getting a behind-the-scenes look at life at the firehall.
How to enter:
- Download the colouring page.
- Fill it out with all your artistic flair!
- Add your contact information.
- Submit your masterpiece by:
- Dropping it off at Station 151, or
- Scanning and emailing it to fire.prevention@cochrane.ca
Deadline: One lucky family will be randomly selected and contacted on October 21 to claim their exclusive tour.