West Columbia proclaims Fire Prevention Week, highlights lithium-ion battery safety and schedules department open house

The West Columbia City Council on Oct. 7 proclaimed October 2025 as National Fire Prevention Week and heard a presentation from Fire Chief Solomon emphasizing lithium‑ion battery safety and announcing a department open house and blood drive.

Chief Solomon told council that many household electronics — smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e‑bikes, e‑scooters and toys — use lithium‑ion batteries that can overheat, ignite or explode if misused, damaged or charged with uncertified chargers. He cited an increase in battery-related fires reported by the National Fire Protection Association and urged three calls to action: buy only listed (certified) products, charge batteries safely and recycle them responsibly.

Chief Solomon said the city’s fire open house will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at 610 North 12th Street and will include food, games and a blood drive. The proclamation declared the 2025 Fire Prevention Week theme “Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium‑Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The council unanimously proclaimed the week.

Why it matters: With the growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in everyday devices, the chief emphasized public education on safe charging and proper disposal to reduce the risk of home fires. The open house will be an opportunity for community outreach and education.

Ending: The proclamation was unanimously adopted; the department’s open house and blood drive are scheduled this month, and staff encouraged residents to take the three listed safety steps.