Mayor Chuck Charles read a proclamation declaring October 2025 as Fire Prevention Week in Ashland and highlighting risks posed by lithium‑ion batteries in household devices.

Why it matters: City officials are using the annual observance to promote safe charging, proper disposal and recycling of lithium‑ion batteries that power common devices such as phones, laptops, e‑bikes and toys.

The proclamation, read on the record, noted the National Fire Protection Association’s reporting of increased battery-related fires and called on residents to buy certified chargers, charge batteries safely and recycle them responsibly. Fire Chief Ali (recorded as Chief Ali) described planned public-safety activities: a First Friday event on Oct. 3 featuring equipment demonstrations and rope rescues from an aerial device on Winchester Avenue, and a smoke-detector blitz on Oct. 5 in the East End in partnership with the American Red Cross to distribute detectors door to door.

Discussion vs. decision: The proclamation is ceremonial and informational; it commits the fire department to outreach and demonstrations but does not appropriate funds at this meeting.

Next steps: Fire department staff will circulate event information on the city’s Facebook page and coordinate with the city website to publicize dates and participation details.