MJ Shannon

This week is Fire Safety Prevention Week, and this year's campaign theme is "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home".

Many of the electronics we use in our homes every day, including smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, headphones, and toys, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or explode. To reduce these risks, take note of which devices in your home are powered by them and take this week to go over tips to understand how you and your family can safely buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries to ensure you are prepared for an emergency when it happens.

The National Fire Prevention Association has put together a 3-step plan to safely use lithium-ion batteries:

1. Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
2. Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
3. Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you. 

For more information, and additional tips and tools for fire safety in your home, visit https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week.

Monday is Indigenous People's Day. On this day, we recognize the deep roots and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities in Connecticut. Our history stretches back more than 12,000 years, with nations like the Pequot, Mohegan, Paugussett, Schaghticoke, Quinnipiac, and many others stewarding this land.
 
Let’s use this day to learn more, support Indigenous voices, and commit to honoring Connecticut’s Indigenous history and future.