Mdewakanton Public Safety (MPS) joins the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and departments and agencies across the country in oberserving Fire Prevention Week, held October 5-11 in recognition of the importance of fire safety.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme of “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” stresses how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries. Follow these helpful tips from theNFPA.

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.

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 or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

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.

Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in the country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire while firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires.