Thermal runaway from lithium ion batters can be a bummer.
As such, the Cottage Grove Council took time to educate on lithium ion batter dangers in its Fire Prevention Proclamation, made Oct. 1 for the period of Oct. 5 to Oct. 11.
Firefighter’s son and Cottage Grove Council Member Justin Olsen read the educational proclamation.
“Whereas the city of Cottage Grove is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in Cottage Grove, and visiting, and
Whereas, fire remains a serious public safety concern, both locally and nationally, and the presence of lithium ion batteries in many household devices introduces unique fire risks, and
Whereas, most of the electronics used in homes daily, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, ebikes, escooters, and toys, are powered by lithium ion batteries, which if misused, damaged, or improperly charged, can overheat, start a fire, or explode, and
Whereas, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), reports an increase in battery related fires, underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium ion batteries, and
Whereas, residents should follow three key calls to action: buy only listed products, charge batteries safety, and recycle them responsibly to prevent battery related fires, and
Whereas, lithium ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and improper use such as overcharging, using off brand chargers without safety certification, or exposing batteries to damage, can result in fire or explosion, and
Whereas, the proper disposal of lithium ion batteries helps reduce fire risks and hazards in the home, and community, and
Whereas, Cottage Grove first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education, and community outreach, and
Whereas, the 2025 Fire Prevention Week theme, charge into fire safety, lithium ion batteries in your home, serves to remind us of the importance of using and charging lithium ion batteries safely to reduce the risk of fire in your home,
Now, therefore, the mayor and city council of Cottage Grove hereby proclaim the week of October 5 through October 11 as Fire Prevention Week, and urge all Cottage Grove residents to make sure their homes have working smoke alarms, and to support the many public safety activities and efforts of emergency services.”
The proclamation was unanimously approved in council, motion by Olsen seconded by Council member Monique Garza.