Fire Prevention Week raises awareness about fire risks, promotes fire safety education, and highlights the simple but important steps we can all take to protect ourselves and those around us. It is observed each year in Canada and the United States during the week in which October 9 falls, to remember the victims of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 which killed 300 people, destroyed 17,000 structures and left 100,000 people homeless.

Fire Prevention Week 2025 is October 5-11

This year's theme focuses on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries and emphasizes the importance of buying, charging, and recycling them responsibly.

Did you know?

The average four-person household contains 33 lithium-ion batteries (also known as li-ion). They are commonly used in rechargeable products such as:

• personal electronics such as smartphones, smart watches, laptops, tablets, and wireless headphones
• toys like remote control cars, ride-on toys, and drones
• power tools and lawn tools
• portable power banks
• vaping products (e-cigarettes)
• e-mobility products such as e-scooters, e-bikes and mobility aids

They are generally safe to use, and carry the same safety risks as other kinds of batteries, including overheating, fires, and explosions. However, lithium-ion batteries are more easily damaged than other types of batteries and can become hazardous in certain conditions since they are more volatile. Learn more about buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries and check out the video below for important information.

Home Fire Escape Plan contest

It's important to plan ahead! If a fire breaks out in your home, you may only have a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire.

Kids and families of Spruce Grove: we want to see your home fire escape plan! Take a look at the Home Escape Planning Safety Tips and then use the Home Fire Escape Plan grid to draw a map of your home showing all the possible emergency escape routes in each room. Once you've completed your plan, ask a parent or guardian to help you email it to us with your name and contact information. 

Email your home fire escape plan to sgpsadmin@sprucegrove.org by Saturday, Oct. 11. Be sure to include your name and phone number. We will select one winning entry and the winner will receive a private tour of the Spruce Grove Protective Services building and pizza!