Join us on Saturday, September 26 for fire safety, family fun and Sparky the Fire Dog! 

RICHMOND HILL – Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services (RHFES) is inviting residents to its annual Fire Prevention Week Open House on Saturday, September 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fire Station 8-1 (191 Major Mackenzie Drive West). 

Bring the whole family for a day of fun, learning and community connection. Visitors can enjoy firefighter demonstrations, interactive displays, fire trucks, hands-on activities for kids and opportunities to meet Richmond Hill firefighters. Children can also meet Sparky the Fire Dog! Residents are invited to enjoy the activities while discovering simple ways to help keep their homes and loved ones safe. 

The Open House helps kick off Fire Prevention Week, taking place October 4 to 10. This year's theme, Charge Into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower!, focuses on the safe use and charging of lithium-ion batteries found in everyday devices such as cell phones, tablets, e-bikes, e-scooters and power tools. By following a few simple safety habits, residents can help reduce the risk of fire and protect their families. 

Throughout Fire Prevention Week, residents can access fire safety resources, family activities and educational materials online, including colouring sheets, games and home escape planning information. 

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and the Open House, visit RichmondHill.ca/FirePreventionWeek. 

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips
Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day. Following a few simple charging habits can help reduce the risk of fire and keep your family safe. 

• Use the charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Charge devices on a hard, flat surface, away from beds, couches and other soft furnishings.
• Unplug your devices when they are fully charged.
• Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside if possible and away from exits.  

Safe charging is a superpower, so make these simple habits part of your everyday routine.