Mayor proclaims Fire Prevention Week; chief urges caution over lithium-ion battery risks

Mayor Randy Rouse issued a proclamation at the Oct. 7 City Council meeting declaring October 2025 as Fire Prevention Week in Santa Barbara and highlighting lithium-ion battery safety.

"Whereas the National Fire Protection Association reports an increase in battery related fires, underscoring the need for public education," Mayor Rouse read in the proclamation text. The mayor urged residents to "buy only listed products, charge batteries safely, and recycle them responsibly to prevent battery related fires."

Fire Chief (addressing the council) said lithium-ion batteries present a growing public-safety problem and described how patterns seen in larger cities have started to appear locally. "We have seen some fairly significant fires already caused by lithium ion batteries in our city," the chief said, urging public education and safe practices.

The chief recounted a personal example about residents bringing e-bike batteries inside and charging them by doors in multi-dwelling units, creating escape hazards. He also called attention to the increasing availability of aftermarket batteries and off‑brand chargers that may lack safety certifications.

The Fire Department asked residents to follow three simple steps the department summarized for outreach: buy listed products, use/charge batteries responsibly, and recycle batteries at appropriate facilities. Volunteer coordinators and the department’s outreach teams will emphasize those messages during the week and in ongoing education efforts.

The proclamation was ceremonial and no council vote was required. It directs public outreach to warn residents about lithium‑ion battery risks and to encourage safe charging and recycling behaviors.