DUANE SHERRILLEditor

The safety of lithium batteries is a part of this year’s focus during Fire Prevention Month in Tullahoma as the fire department hopes to spread the word about safe storage and disposal.

Tullahoma Mayor Lynn Sebourn proclaimed Oct. 5-11 to be 2025 Fire Prevention Week with its emphasis being “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-ion Batteries in your Home”.

With the focus, the mayor read the proclamation during the recent board of mayor and aldermen meeting.

“Most of the electronics used in homes daily, including smart phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters and toys are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which if misused, damaged, or improperly charged can overheat, start a fire or explode,” the proclamation read by Mayor Lynn Sebourn stated. “The National Fire Protection Association reports an increase in battery-related fires, underscoring the need for public education on safe use of lithium-ion batteries.”

The proclamation underscored that residents should follow three calls to action which include buying only listed products, charging batteries safely and to recycle them safely.

“Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and improper use such as overcharging, using off-brand chargers without safety certification, or exposing batteries to damage can result in an explosion.

The city fire chief said they will be using not just the week but the month of October to get the word out.

“We want to make sure to get our message across to people,” said Tullahoma Fire Chief Kenneth Pearson of the prevention week that the department actually treats as a fire prevention month. “Lithium batteries are here to stay so have some understanding will make it safer.