Watson Lake Fire Department

10/10/2026

SMALL BATTERY. A LOT OF ENERGY.

Lithium-ion batteries have changed the way we live, work, travel, and communicate.

They also store a large amount of energy—which is why damaged, defective, or improperly charged batteries can create a serious fire hazard.

Take a few minutes to learn more about the power inside these batteries and why safe charging practices matter.

🎥 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/Af27049X8Io

Respect the battery. Use it properly. Charge it safely.

Ever wonder what makes batteries so powerful and sometimes dangerou...

10/09/2026

FOR TOOLS AND RIDES — CHARGE OUTSIDE.

Larger lithium-ion batteries can be found in e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools, lawn equipment, and many other devices.

When possible, charge these items in a safe location and always follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.

Never allow charging equipment to block an exit or escape route.

These batteries store a significant amount of energy, and if one fails, a fire can develop quickly.

✔ Use the correct charger.
✔ Keep exits clear.
✔ Never use a damaged battery.
✔ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Small action. Big impact.

More information: fpw.org

10/09/2026

WHAT IS THERMAL RUNAWAY?

You may hear this term when people talk about lithium-ion battery fires.

Thermal runaway happens when a battery begins generating heat faster than it can release it, creating a chain reaction that can lead to extremely high temperatures and fire.

Understanding why it happens is another reason to use the correct charger, avoid damaged batteries, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

🎥 Watch the NFPA video:
https://youtu.be/bXnFx9sfH4w

Battery safety starts before there’s an emergency.

What happens when a lithium-ion battery generates heat faster than ...

10/08/2026

FULLY CHARGED? TIME TO UNPLUG.

Once your device is fully charged, disconnect it from the charger instead of leaving it plugged in longer than necessary.

It’s one of the simplest habits we can build into our daily routine.

Charge it.
Use it.
Unplug it.

And always follow the charging instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Small action. Big impact.

More information: fpw.org

10/08/2026

DAMAGED BATTERY? TAKE IT SERIOUSLY.

A swollen, crushed, punctured, unusually hot, or otherwise damaged lithium-ion battery should never be ignored.

Damage inside the battery may not always be visible from the outside—and a failing battery can generate extreme heat very quickly.

This NFPA video shows what can happen inside a damaged lithium-ion battery.

🎥 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/KRVR2jI1PeY

If something looks, smells, sounds, or feels wrong with your battery-powered device, stop using it.

Small battery. Big power. But when a lithium-ion battery is damaged...

10/07/2026

FEELS HOT? STOP USING IT.

If a battery-powered device doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore it.

Watson Lake Fire Department recommends stopping use immediately if a battery:

⚠️ Feels unusually hot
⚠️ Smells strange
⚠️ Makes popping or unusual noises
⚠️ Begins swelling or changing shape
⚠️ Changes colour
⚠️ Starts smoking

If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can burn.

A damaged lithium-ion battery can overheat and start a fire.

Small action. Big impact.

More information: fpw.org

10/07/2026

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A BATTERY GETS TOO HOT?

Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a very small space.

If a battery becomes damaged, overheated, or begins to fail, that stored energy can be released very quickly.

This NFPA demonstration helps explain the science behind thermal runaway and why keeping batteries cool and charging them properly matters.

🎥 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/dl3ct5bFgnU

Charge safely. Keep batteries away from excessive heat. Know the warning signs.

With just a few simple ingredients, explore what happens during the...

10/06/2026

SOFT SURFACE? HARD PASS.

Charging your phone, tablet, laptop, gaming device, or other rechargeable equipment?

Keep it on a hard, flat surface such as a table, desk, or other stable surface while charging.

Beds, couches, blankets, and pillows can trap heat and restrict airflow around the battery.

Give your device some breathing room while it charges.

✔ Hard surface.
✔ Good airflow.
✔ Nothing covering the device.

Small action. Big impact.

More information: fpw.org

10/06/2026

YOUR BATTERY HAS POWER. SO DO YOU.

One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of a battery fire is to make smart choices when charging your devices.

Use the correct charger, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and pay attention to your device while it charges.

Safe charging starts with you.

🎥 Watch this NFPA video:
https://youtu.be/ZLBE9mog0oQ

A few good habits can make a big difference.

Before you plug in, charge up on battery safety. The correct charge...

10/05/2026

🔌 CHEAP CHARGER? DON’T CHANCE IT.

Watson Lake Fire Department reminds everyone to use the charger and cord that came with your device, or a replacement specifically approved by the manufacturer.

Using the wrong charger can damage the battery, cause overheating, and increase the risk of fire.

That inexpensive charger may not be much of a bargain if it puts your device—or your home—at risk.

✔ Use manufacturer-approved charging equipment.
✔ Replace damaged cords and chargers.
✔ Don’t mix chargers unless they are designed for your device.

Small action. Big impact.

More information: fpw.org