October 9th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

2025’s Fire Prevention Week is focused on bringing awareness to lithium ion battery safety.  These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and Cumberland Fire Chief Shannon Adams says damage can be seen or unseen. Odors, a change in color, excess heat, and changes in shape, leaks and noises can be signs of damage.  Chief Adams adds disposing batteries properly is key. “If you go to the County website there is a place about recycling and batteries and how to do such.  Certain batteries and certain things you can actually take to Lowe’s and or Staples both in LaVale, and they’ll take certain types of rechargeable batteries and cellphones and single batteries and they’ll be able to recycle them for you safely.”