Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue Services Invites Community to Open House for Fire Prevention Week 

Maple Ridge, B.C., September 26, 2025 – Fire safety starts at home, and Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue Services is encouraging residents to drop by a community open house on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Fire Hall No. 1 to learn fire safety and prevention tips. 

The event kicks off Fire Prevention Week (October 5–11), which this year focuses on “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” Led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the campaign highlights how to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely—an important reminder as these batteries power many of the devices we use every day, from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools. 

To Fire Hall Open House runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Fire Hall No. 1, 22708 Brown Avenue. 

This free family-friendly event will feature: 

• Hands-on activities and safety demonstrations 
• Fire prevention resources and tips for your household 
• Emergency readiness resources and tips  
• A by-donation BBQ lunch hosted by the Maple Ridge Firefighters’ Charity 
• Prizes and giveaways supported by Canadian Tire, which is also helping share the battery safety message at their Maple Ridge store (11969 220 St.) 
• 'Special appearance by Ridge Meadows RCMP Safety Bear AND Sparky the Fire Safety Dog 

“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and nearly everywhere in our homes - from smartphones to power tools,” said Fire Chief Dave Samson. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign is about giving families the tools to use these batteries safely so they can prevent fires before they start.” 

Throughout Fire Prevention Week, Maple Ridge Fire Department staff will also be hitting the road with their partners at Panago Pizza (22441 Dewdney Trunk Rd.). If firefighters deliver your pizza and you can demonstrate that your home has working smoke alarms, your order will be completely free—thanks to Panago for their ongoing support of community safety. 

Residents are also encouraged to watch the City’s social media channels throughout the week for helpful safety tips. 

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips 

• Buy only listed products. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab, ensuring it meets safety standards. 
• Charge devices safely. Use manufacturer-approved chargers, follow instructions, avoid charging on beds or couches, and don’t overcharge. 
• Recycle responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Take them to a safe battery recycling location (visit call2recycle.org to find one near you). 

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit www.nfpa.org. For more fire safety information, visit MapleRidge.ca/FirePrevention or follow the City’s social media channels. 

For additional information, contact Kevin Heard, Fire Prevention Inspector at 604-463-5880 or KHerd@MapleRidge.ca.