Oct. 4-10. marks National Fire Prevention Week, the nation’s oldest public health observance, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association. Richmond Fire Department is joining the observance by asking residents to make fire safety a priority at home and in the community. 

Many house fires are preventable, but fire can still touch any home. Richmond has had seven fire fatalities in the last two years, and behind each number is a family and a neighborhood that was changed forever. 

“We grieve every life lost to fires in our city, and we owe it to them to do everything we can to prevent the next one,” said Richmond Fire Chief Jeffrey Segal. “Fire Prevention is a daily practice, whether it’s testing a smoke alarm or making sure residents know how to safely heat their homes, our job is to be out in the community, educating our residents and making sure they have the resources they need to protect themselves and their families.” 

This year’s theme for Fire Prevention Week is “Charge into Safety,” focusing on every day charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. Some best practices include: 

• Using the cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. 
• Always charge devices on a hard, flat surface. 
• Unplugging devices once they are fully charged 
• Charge large items such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging. 
• Stop using devices that are very hot, start to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sound. 

Throughout Fire Prevention Week, Richmond Fire Department will be out in the community with events and educational activities for residents of all ages. To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit  www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week.