As Fire Prevention Week wraps up, local fire departments are focusing on the dangers linked to lithium-ion batteries.
Niagara Falls Fire Chief Jo Zambito is urging residents to stay cautious and use care when charging electronic devices.
When buying batteries for a device, you should only ever buy listed products and check the packaging for the logo of a qualified testing laboratory, such as UL/ULC or CSA, which means it meets real safety standards.
Zambito says with ever changing technology, it's important to know of the dangers.
When it comes to disposing of these batteries, it's important to do so properly and safely.
They should not placed in a garbage bin, blue bin or green bin as they could start a fire. Instead, you should drop off used batteries for free at your local Niagara Region recyling depot.
You should also stop using the battery if you notice any of the following: odour, change in colour, change in shape, too much heat, leaking, or noise coming from the battery.
(Written by: Brandon Warby & Matt Latour)