AMES — Fire Prevention Week, proclaimed by Mayor John Haila to begin Sunday, highlights the risks associated with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as the Ames Fire Department prepares for its annual open house.
This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower,” emphasizes how everyday charging habits can reduce fire risks.
During an Ames City Council meeting, Haila read a proclamation recognizing the department’s prevention efforts and the importance of educating residents about batteries used in cellphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, electric bicycles and scooters.
The proclamation noted that batteries can present fire risks when damaged, improperly charged, overheated or used with incompatible charging equipment. It also encouraged unplugging fully charged devices and avoiding unattended charging.
Ames Fire Department Inspector Jason Ziph thanked the council for the proclamation and explained why devices residents use daily deserve attention.
“These batteries are convenient, but they store a very large amount of energy in a very small package,” Ziph said. “When they’re damaged, defective or used incorrectly, they can overheat, catch fire or even explode.”
Ziph outlined several precautions, beginning with using the charger and battery designed for a device and following the manufacturer’s instructions.
“Don’t take a chance with those cheap knockoff batteries or those cheap cords that you find everywhere,” Ziph said.
Charging location also matters. Residents should place devices on hard surfaces rather than beds, pillows or couches because soft surfaces can trap heat generated during charging.
He urged residents to watch for batteries becoming unusually hot, changing shape, swelling, hissing, smoking or making popping sounds. Residents should stop using devices showing those warning signs and call 911.
For larger batteries used in electric bicycles, scooters and power tools, Ziph recommended charging away from combustible materials and keeping exits clear.
Lithium-ion batteries also should not go in the trash or regular recycling. Ames Resource Recovery staff can help residents identify an appropriate battery recycling location.
Residents can learn more about fire safety during the department’s free annual open house Oct. 10 at Fire Station No. 1, 1300 Burnett Ave.
A sensory-friendly hour will run from 8 to 9 a.m., followed by general admission from 9 a.m. to noon. The early hour will feature quieter activities, smaller crowds and reduced stimulation for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Visitors can spray a fire hose, practice using a fire extinguisher, identify hazards in an interactive house display and play fire safety games. Fire trucks, a Mary Greeley Medical Center ambulance, an Ames Police squad car and technical rescue equipment will be available to explore.
Attendees can also meet dispatchers, firefighters, Freddie the Fire Truck and Sparky the Fire Dog. Guided station tours will be offered, although the second floor is not accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to the city.
Firefighters will also visit local schools throughout October to teach fire safety lessons.
“Remember, use the right charger, charge on a hard surface, watch for warning signs and keep the exits clear,” Ziph said.