The National Fire Protection Association has led Fire Prevention Week for over 100 years, occurring Oct. 5 to 11. This year’s motto is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Lithium-ion batteries have been used increasingly in household products, such as phones, laptops and e-bikes.

“Damage to the ion batteries or improper use can cause overheating and potentially dangerous fires,” according to fire association.

Albrightsville Volunteer Fire Company firefighter John Struble said, “Lithium-ion batteries have a longer shelf life. It’s important to dispose of them properly.” These batteries should not be put in regular trash, instead disposed of during an electronics recycling event.

To coincide with Fire Prevention Week, the Albrightsville fire company held a Fire Prevention open house with an opportunity to meet the firefighters, learn about fire prevention, and enjoy free hot dogs and giveaways.

Struble, a 13-year veteran, said, “We want people to know what a volunteer firefighter is and what is expected. Pennsylvania has experienced a depreciation of volunteers. You’re basically joining a huge family and you gather friendships.”

Albrightsville Volunteer Fire Company has 25 firefighters and six junior firefighters under the age of 18.

Joining the department less than a year ago, Brianna Marchese said she “wanted to provide support,” and went through the essentials training for basic level fire skills.

Marchese helps with hydrant hook up, rolling up hoses and putting tools away. She also went through the Emergency Vehicle Operator course and can drive all of the trucks.

Wearing his plastic, red fire hat, Noah Hayes, 7, liked meeting the firefighters and climbing in the trucks. He said he enjoyed the event, “because there’s lots of stuff.”

Social members of the fire company help with things, such as fundraising. Weekly bingo and Sunday breakfast are some of the bigger fundraisers. The fire company also holds a fundraising flower sale each year

The Chief’s wife, Justine Blew, who was a member of the fire police and is now the director of the board, said they have four grandkids who are junior firefighters. One of them turns 18 in April and will be a full firefighter. Their son and daughter are also firefighters.

Chief of nine years, Al Blew said, “It takes a special person to be a firefighter. It’s not for everyone, but there is always something for everyone to do as there’s lots of work to be done.”

He said they are appreciative of the time and skills the volunteers provide to the community.