New Canaan To Observe Fire Prevention Week

NEW CANAAN, CT — The New Canaan Fire Department is taking national Fire Prevention Week, observed Oct. 5-11, and making it local.

According to a news release provided by the town, this year's Fire Prevention Week theme is "Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries In Your Home."

Lithium-ion batteries are found in more and more households in power tools, electric bicycles and scooters, laptop computers, cell photos, and motor vehicles.

Improper use of these batteries, such as overcharging, has been associated with structure fires in Fairfield County and across the state, as well as fatal fires across the country, according to the town.

"Our goal in New Canaan is zero fires," Fire Chief Albert Bassett said in a news release. "We work every week on fire prevention and public education, and during Fire Prevention Week we will intensify our local public education efforts and tie into the theme of lithium-ion batteries safety."

According to the town, the New Canaan Fire Department's plan for Fire Prevention Week includes:

• Friday, Oct. 3 (1 p.m.) – Official proclamation of Fire Prevention Week in New Canaan at Town Hall; First Selectman Dionna Carlson presiding.
• Monday, Oct. 6 – Sharing video on charging lithium-ion batteries via social media.
• Tuesday, Oct. 7 – Sharing "start to finish" fact sheet on buying, using and recycling lithium batteries via social media and local media outlets.
• Wednesday, Oct. 8 – Sharing via social media New Canaan Fire Department's video on electrical safety via social media.
• Oct. 9, 10 and 11 – Sharing via social media general fire safety videos and fact sheets including kitchen fire safety, fireplace/ash disposal safety and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.