Bend Fire & Rescue to host open house this Saturday focusing on battery safety

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- Bend Fire & Rescue will host an open house this Saturday, Oct. 17, in celebration of Fire Prevention Month. The free event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the North Fire Station, located at 63377 NE Jamison St. in Bend.

The event supports this year's Fire Prevention Month campaign theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety,” which focuses on the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Devices such as e-bikes, power tools, cell phones and tablets rely on lithium-ion power and improper charging, use or disposal of these batteries can increase the risk of fire.

Attendees at the open house can take part in hands-on activities, safety demonstrations and interactions with local first responders. Planned activities include touring fire engines and ambulances, spraying a fire hose, viewing live fire demonstrations, painting a City of Bend snowplow and making family crafts. Airlink and Life Flight helicopters are scheduled to land at the station for public exploration and the event will feature free ice cream and giveaways.

To reduce safety risks associated with lithium-ion devices, fire safety guidance recommends that residents purchase listed products and follow manufacturer charging instructions. Proper recycling and disposal of lithium-ion batteries are also emphasized to prevent fire hazards.

Community members can learn more about lithium-ion battery safety during the event or by visiting the National Fire Protection Association website. Schedule details and additional event information are listed on the Bend Fire & Rescue calendar online.