Kamloops Fire Rescue Encourages Residents to “Charge Into Fire Safety” During Fire Prevention Week 

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Kamloops Fire Rescue is joining fire services across North America and the National Fire Protection Association® in recognizing Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, 2026. This year’s theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower!”, focuses on everyday charging habits that can reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and help keep homes and communities safer.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we rely on daily, including cell phones, laptops, power tools, gaming consoles, baby monitors, vaping pens, and hearing aids. While convenient and powerful, these batteries can overheat, explode, and release toxic smoke if damaged, overcharged, or used with the wrong charger.  

“Safe charging starts with small, everyday choices,” said Fire Chief Ken Uzeloc. “Using the right charger, charging devices on a hard surface, unplugging them when they are fully charged, and watching for warning signs can help prevent a fire. We encourage everyone in Kamloops to make these habits part of their regular routine.”

Kamloops Fire Rescue recommends the following safe-charging tips: 

  • Use the right charger: Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. The wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire. 
  • Choose a hard surface: Charge devices on a table, desk, bare floor, or another hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows, where heat can become trapped. 
  • Unplug when fully charged: Disconnect the device once charging is complete. Leaving it plugged in longer than needed can increase heat and stress on the battery. 
  • Charge large items outside: When possible, charge e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits. Do not let charging devices block a doorway or escape route. 
  • Know the warning signs: Stop using a device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells unusual, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. 

Dispose of batteries responsibly. Never place lithium-ion batteries in the garbage or curbside recycling. Find a safe battery recycling location at RecycleYourBatteries.ca. For more information about the 2026 campaign and safe charging, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s® Fire Prevention Week web page. For local home fire safety information, visit Kamloops.ca/HomeFireSafety.