Fire department holds Fire Prevention Week open house

Firefighter Matt Meloche and Lt. Myles Robinson helps show young Levi Meloche how to spray a fire hose.

Fire Prevention Week was observed last week with the Amherstburg Fire Department holding several events.

Members of the department went to local schools on the subject of fire safety but the main attraction was the open house last Wednesday evening at the Libro Centre. Fire trucks were on hand for young and old to look at, with children getting a chance to spray a hose and ride in a fire truck also available. 

Families also enjoyed a barbecue and received fire safety materials from members of the department.

“This is the culmination of what we do for Fire Prevention Week,” said fire chief Michael Mio. “We get people out to learn about what our firefighters do and to interact withour staff.”

Mio stated this year’s focus is on Lithium-ion battery safety. Mio said they have had a few calls due to issues with Lithium-ion batteries in Amherstburg, so they want to ensure the community stays safe.

“Lithium-ion technology is generally very safe as long as we follow the manufacturer’s standards and use the products as intended,” said Mio. “That includes using the proper chargers, charging in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and keeping cords and devices in good condition.”

Mio added issues often arise when batteries are improperly charged or physically damaged. 

“A damaged or overcharged battery can overheat and potentially ignite nearby materials,” he said. 

To reduce the risk, Mio urged people to always use the correct charger; inspect cords for frays or breaks; and avoid using devices that have been dropped, submerged, or otherwise damaged. He added if a device feels hot to the touch, unplug it and move it to a safe place away from combustibles, preferably outside.

According to information from the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM), a phone experiencing battery thermal runaway will first feel extremely hot, then may swell or bulge. Next, it could emit smoke and gases, and if the reaction continues, flames may erupt, causing ignition or even explosion. 

“Lithium-ion batteries are not like regular batteries,” said Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg, in material sent to the RTT from Mio. “When they fail, they can unleash a chain reaction that results in an intense fire that can spread in seconds, release toxic smoke, and make escape incredibly difficult.”

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office reports the number of lithium-ion battery-related fires is rising sharply across the province with the increasing number of household devices, such as phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes and scooters, powered by them. The OFM says these fires often begin with overheating. If the battery is damaged, tampered with, or charged improperly, this overheating can spiral into thermal runaway -- a self-sustaining reaction in which heat is generated faster than it can dissipate, resulting in fire and, in some cases, explosion. These fires burn hotter and faster than other types of fires and produce thick, toxic smoke.

“Lithium-ion battery fires present a new, significant challenge to the fire service,” continued Fire Marshal Pegg. “But like many other types of fires, they can be prevented by following simple safety tips.”

Fire Prevention Week not only included the school visits and open house, but Stella Maris School students went to the Safety Village, hosted by Amherstburg Fire. 

Deputy Fire Chief Dan Monk added anyone or any organization who would like fire safety lessons or materials can contact the Amherstburg Fire Department.

“It’s a free service to the community,” said Monk.

Fire Prevention Officer Mario Fiorito underscored this year’s focus on Lithium-ion battery safety. He added the open house was a good way for the public to get an up close and personal look at the department’s trucks and equipment.

“It’s taxpayers’ money that pays for it,” said Fiorito.

Fiorito said he also conducts home inspections throughout the year and also at businesses and restaurants.

Mio added they are making other changes within the department, including the implementation of the “north-south” model of responding to calls. While firefighters are still assigned to all three fire stations in town, they are now on the new model to prepare themselves for when the new station opens next year.

Fire department holds Fire Prevention Week open house

By Ron Giofu