The risk of lithium-ion battery fires will be the focus of Fire Safety Awareness Week this week.

The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service will start the educational campaign tomorrow to offer practical fire prevention advice.

The public were also encouraged to show support by lining the streets of Hamilton in the morning and cheering on a convoy of fire protection vehicles.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, highlighted the importance of the week, saying that fire prevention “starts at home”.

He said: “Every household should make safety a daily habit, whether it is checking your smoke alarms, charging devices responsibly or simply talking with family about what to do in an emergency.

“A few moments of preparation can save lives.”

Mr Weeks added: “This year we are particularly mindful of the risks that lithium-ion batteries bring.

“They are part of our everyday lives but when handled incorrectly, they can be dangerous.

“I encourage the public to take advantage of the advice being shared this week to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

The warning was issued with the help of the National Fire Protection Association, which started the Charge Into Fire Safety campaign to warn against fires started by lithium-ion batteries.

The batteries are commonly found in electronics, mobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters, and electric vehicles.

Lithium-ion batteries, while strong energy-storing devices, are at risk of overheating, catching fire or exploding if damaged.

The NFPA and BFRS recommended that residents only buy and use devices, batteries and charging equipment listed by nationally recognised testing labs.

They further recommended using charging equipment compatible to personal devices, ideally supplied by the manufacturers, and to not keep charging devices once fully charged.

Electronics should no longer be used if batteries show signs of damage, such as a strange odour, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling or colour changes.

Device repairs should only be performed by professionals.

Lithium-ion batteries should not be put in the trash and instead disposed of at a battery-recycling plant.

Information on how to properly dispose of lithium-ion batteries at the Tynes Bay public drop-off will be released later.

Jamal Albuoy, the divisional officer of fire prevention division of the BFRS, said: “The BFRS encourages residents to learn more about the hazards of lithium-ion batteries.

“By better understanding how lithium-ion battery fires start, people can take the necessary steps to minimise associated risks and safely use their electronics and other devices powered by these batteries.”