Every year, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responds to fires involving batteries and are now encouraging Winnipeggers to protect their homes as Fire Prevention Week kicks off on October 5. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries can put your life at risk and cause damage to your home and property. Many homes are full of items that use lithium-ion batteries such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, household tools, toys, e-bikes, and headphones. WFPS are giving Winnipeggers tips on how to avoid a fire. Always charge a device with the cords it came with If you need a new charger, get one directly from the manufacturer Charge your device on a hard, flat surface. Never charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch When your device is fully charged, unplug it Check your batteries and device for signs of damage regularly Recycle or dispose of batteries safely at any 4R Depot. Don’t put them in your garbage or recycling carts because they could start a fire Winnipeggers are encouraged to ensure their smoke detector is working properly. For homeowners that do not have a working smoke detector, they may be able to have one installed free of charge through the Smoke Alarm for Every (SAFE) Family program. In 2025 so far, over 1,000 smoke detectors have been installed in homes that did not have them. On October 4, Winnipeggers are invited to go to their local fire-paramedic stations from noon to 4 p.m. to attend open houses and learn more.