On Saturday, Oct. 11, Moraga-Orinda Fire District Station 41 held its annual open house and pancake breakfast – nearly six years to the day since residents of Moraga's Sanders Ranch neighborhood were forced to flee their homes early in the morning on Oct. 10, 2019 after a fast-moving wildfire burned 40 acres and threatened structures.  

    Fire Prevention Week was Oct. 6-11 this year. In 1925, then President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first national fire prevention week to raise awareness of fire safety and to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of Oct. 8–10, 1871, which killed over 250 people and left more than 100,000 homeless.

    Many Open House visitors feasted on pancakes with real maple syrup and sausages before exploring the many informative booths focusing on safety in the home or community. 

    This year, the theme of fire prevention week was “Charge into Fire Safety:  Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The MOFD used social media to help consumers make smart choices when it comes to buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries – because the wrong move can lead to a fire. Posts every day during the week offered tips on how to safely handle lithium-ion batteries at home.

    Lithium-ion batteries are used to power almost everything rechargeable now. This includes electric vehicles of all sorts, including laptops, tablets, smart watches and phones, as well as toys, drones, remote control cars, cordless vacuum cleaners, and headphones. However, lithium-ion batteries can overheat and start a fire or even explode if overcharged or damaged.

    When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for safety certification marks from a nationally recognized testing lab such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means that it meets important safety standards.  A lot of products sold online and in stores don’t have these stamps and can seriously increase the risk of fire. Always use the charger that comes with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. If the cord only works when you bend it just right, it’s time to replace it.

    Charge any lithium-ion battery device on a hard surface. Never charge your device on a bed, couch, or under a pillow.  Also, do not overcharge; stop charging when the device is fully charged.

    Large items, such as e-bikes, scooters, or power tools with lithium-ion batteries should be charged outside. Charge large items on a flat, dry area away from direct sunlight, anything wet, tripping hazards and children. Make sure the device is secure so it doesn’t fall while charging.
 
    Lithium-ion batteries or devices also require special disposal methods. Do not throw them in the trash or regular recycling bins where they can start a fire. Republic Services states that improper disposal of lithium batteries can have dire consequences for people and the environment.  The materials within these batteries can harm ecosystems and contaminate water supplies, causing long-lasting damage. When batteries fail, they can release toxic gases that endanger individuals in their homes and workplace.

    Drop lithium-ion batteries or devices off at a legitimate battery recycling spot for free; it’s safer and better for the planet. Visit www.call2recycle.org to find a drop-off location near you.