The department held an open house as part of Fire Prevention Week, giving families from across the area an opportunity to learn about fire safety in engaging and hands-on ways. Kids were given an opportunity to operate a fire hose and ride around in some of the department’s fire engines.

“Once per year, we open the doors for the community to come into our fire station, ride our fire trucks and see what we do,” Ogden Fire Chief Michael Slater told the Standard-Examiner.

He said this year’s theme centered around something that’s growing in numbers — and risks — in every home as people continue to embrace technology.

“The theme this year is about lithium-ion battery safety,” he said. “Our hazmat team’s here. They’re showing kids the dangers and safety precautions with lithium-ion batteries. It’s just a good time to get the community out and get them engaged with their local fire department and give them a message while they’re here — to be safe around these lithium-ion batteries and ways to keep their homes safe.”

Rob Nielsen, Standard-Examiner

Slater said fires that involve lithium-ion batteries can pose significant challenges to firefighters.

“It’s harder for us to put them out,” he said. “Some of the batteries produce their own oxygen which makes it hard for us as firefighters to extinguish with a little bit of water. You see the big push with the Teslas and the EV vehicles; anytime there’s innovation like that, it poses a hazard to the community, so we’re just out there pushing safety.”

In a press release kicking off Fire Prevention Week, the Utah State Fire Marshall’s Office listed several tips on how to handle these batteries safely, including:

• “When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets established safety standards.
• “Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
• “Always use the cables that come with the product to charge it. Also, charge the device in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• “If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• “Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• “Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
• “Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
• “Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them.
• “Visit www.call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.”

Families had a chance to ride fire trucks during the Ogden City Fire Department's Fire Prevention Week open house on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025.

Kids enjoyed several activities during the Ogden City Fire Department's Fire Prevention Week open house on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025.

A young girl, with a little help, gets a chance to use an actual fire hose during the Ogden City Fire Department's Fire Prevention Week open house on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025.

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