Derby proclaims Fire Prevention Week, emphasizes lithium-ion battery safety; two fire department promotions recognized
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Summary
Derby declared Oct. 5-11, 2025 Fire Prevention Week and the fire chief highlighted lithium-ion battery risks, local disposal options and a new senior fall-prevention program. The council also recognized two recent promotions in the Derby Fire Department.
Mayor Statz and the Derby City Council on Sept. 23 proclaimed Oct. 5'11, 2025 as Fire Prevention Week and heard a presentation from Fire Chief John Turner on lithium-ion battery safety and other department initiatives.
Chief Turner said lithium-ion batteries are a growing fire risk: if a battery enters "thermal runaway," he said, "we cannot extinguish it" and it can continue burning even submerged in water. He noted that improperly discarded batteries can trigger trash-truck fires, and urged residents to recycle batteries rather than discard them. Chief Turner identified a local drop-off: Lowe's in Derby, at the east entrance, has a lithium-ion battery recycling bin.
A short public-safety video played for the council outlining safety steps: buy certified products, use manufacturer-approved chargers, charge on hard surfaces and recycle batteries through call2recycle.org.
Turner also described department prevention efforts: a newly adopted fire-safety mascot called "Fire Pup," a program that installs smoke and CO alarms in homes, and a community-based fall-prevention program aimed at Derby seniors. Turner said the fall-prevention program is unique and partners with local organizations; results will be published in the city's community magazine.
Following the proclamation, Chief Turner presented promotions: Chris Harrell was sworn in as lieutenant and John Purdy as captain; the chief described Harrell as the department's first paramedic and noted Purdy's prior military service and rapid promotion within the department.
Council members thanked the department for outreach. The proclamation and recognition were ceremonial; no council vote was required for the recognition and the council progressed to other agenda items.