ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
<br /> PROCLAMATION
<br /> FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
<br /> OCTOBER 5 - 11 , 2025
<br /> WHEREAS , Orange County is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and
<br /> visiting our county ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , fire remains a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally , and the presence of
<br /> lithium-ion batteries in many household devices introduces unique fire risks ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , most of the electronics used in homes daily — including smartphones , tablets , laptops, power
<br /> tools , e-bikes , e-scooters , golf carts , and toys — are powered by lithium-ion batteries , which if misused ,
<br /> damaged, or improperly charged, can overheat, start a fire , or explode ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , the National Fire Protection Association® (NFFA®) reports an increase in battery-related
<br /> fires , underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , residents should follow three key calls to action : Buy only listed products , charge batteries
<br /> safely , and recycle them responsibly to prevent battery-related fires ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and improper use such
<br /> as overcharging, using off-brand chargers without safety certification, or exposing batteries to damage can
<br /> result in fire or explosion ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , the proper disposal and recycling of lithium-ion batteries help prevent environmental hazards
<br /> and reduce fire risks in the home and community ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , Orange County first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through
<br /> prevention, safety education, and community outreach ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , Orange County residents are responsive to public education measures and can take personal
<br /> steps to increase their safety from fire , especially in their homes ; and
<br /> WHEREAS , the 2025 Fire Prevention WeekTM theme , " Charge into Fire SafetyTM : Lithium-Ion Batteries
<br /> in Your Home, " serves to remind us of the importance of using , charging , and recycling lithium-ion
<br /> batteries safely to reduce the risk of fires in homes and communities ;
<br /> NOW, THEREFORE, we , the Orange County Board of Commissioners , do hereby proclaim October 5 -
<br /> 11 , 2025 , as Fire Prevention week throughout this community , and urge all the people of Orange County
<br /> to prepare and practice a home fire escape plan for Fire Prevention Week 2025 and to support the many
<br /> public safety activities and efforts of Orange County ' s fire and emergency services .
<br /> This the 7th day of October, 2025
<br /> tie$
<br /> J eze edford, Ch r
<br /> Orange County Board of Commissioners
<br /> Laura Jens n Clerk to the Board
<br />
|