National Fire Prevention Week

Each October, communities across the United States join together to raise awareness about fire safety during Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme, led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), centers on an important subject: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” As rechargeable devices become more common in our homes, the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries have increased. Fire Prevention Week 2025 aims to educate the public on how to use, charge, and dispose of these batteries safely.

As we celebrate National Fire Prevention Week, don’t forget about your fireplace. Fire safety should be considered every time a new season of burning comes about. Felgemacher is here for all your chimney and fireplace needs. A chimney sweep and inspection will help you have a successful burning season.

Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are compact, powerful, and efficient, but they can also be dangerous if not handled appropriately. Overcharging, using chargers that are not compatible or are damaged in any way, can cause overheating, fires, or even explosions. The NFPA’s campaign emphasizes three key safety practices:

• Buy Smart: Select products with safety certifications, such as UL, ETL, or CSA.
• Charge Safely: Use manufacturer-approved chargers, avoid overcharging, and charge on hard surfaces. Don’t charge your device on blankets or under pillows. Let air circulate through the device.
• Recycle Responsibly: Never toss lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Use certified recycling centers like those listed at call2recycle.org. Your town may offer local recycling for batteries as well. Call your local town hall. 

Community Events and Education

Across the country, fire departments are hosting participatory events to bring fire safety to life. Some of the events you may find in your community are open houses with fire truck rides, safety demos, and ice cream for kids. You may discover interactive displays, puppet shows, and gear demos to help children feel comfortable with firefighters. Fire departments are inviting families to a kickoff celebration with fun activities for the entire family. Check their website www.nfpa.org  for further information or your local fire department.

These events not only entertain but also educate families with life-saving knowledge.

Make Sure Your Chimney is Inspected and Cleaned

Keeping your chimney inspected and cleaned is an important part of fire safety. You should have you chimney cleaned and inspected annually. If you use it heavily your professional sweep might suggest more regular cleanings. If you don’t have your chimney swept then the tacky, highly flammable substance called creosote, will start to cause a blockage in the flue of your chimney. This can lead to a chimney fire. Using a qualified, experienced, and reliable chimney sweep service to clean your chimney can prevent chimney fires.

As the fire-burning season is just around the corner, be sure to reach out to Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney. We can educate you on fire safety. Chimney professionals recommend an annual sweep and inspection to keep you enjoying a season of fires.

A clean chimney is a safe chimney, and we’ll keep yours as safe and efficient as it can be. Our owners are certified through the Chimney Safety Institute of America – a stringent industry certification held by only the best sweeps in the U.S. We remove flammable creosote from chimney flues, reducing the chance of a chimney fire. We also remove debris and obstructions that could hamper the drafting of smoke and carbon monoxide.