Info Bulletin
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich and the Saanich Fire Department invite residents to participate in Fire Prevention Week from October 5–11, 2025, with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home."

Saanich Fire Department staff members are visiting schools to host fire drills and engage with students. Learn along with us! 

Lithium-ion batteries are essential components in many everyday items: smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, headphones, toys and more. If a device is rechargeable, it’s likely powered by a lithium-ion battery.

If used incorrectly or damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat and become a hazard by starting a fire or causing an explosion.

Remember the Buy, Charge and Recycle Safely approach:

• Buy safely:
  Select products with certified safety marks from trusted testing labs to ensure the products meet important safety standards. Be cautious that products sold online may not meet safety standards.

• Charge correctly:
  Use original or manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid charging on soft surfaces like beds. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for charging and unplug or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

• Recycle responsibly:
  Dispose of batteries at designated recycling centers, not in the garbage. Take them to Hartland Depot for free or visit crd.ca/whatgoeswhere to find a safe drop-off.

Take action today – set aside time to tour your home and identify which devices are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

Visit fpw.org for colouring pages, safety tip sheets, a free webinar and more from the National Fire Protection Association.

Social media channels:  

• Follow Saanich Fire on Twitter: @SaanichFire
• Follow Saanich Emergency Program on Twitter: @SaanichEP

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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca