THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – WEDnEsDAy, DECEmbER 24, 2025 Page 5 State Fire Marshal Issues Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Reminder Choose and Use Devices safely This Gift-Giving season S TOW—With the holiday gift-giving season in full swing, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine is reminding residents to use caution when choosing and using devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. “Many of this year’s Christmas and Hanukkah presents will be use lithium-ion batteries,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “These devices pack a lot of power into a small device, so it’s important to choose and use them safely.” • Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a certification mark from an independent testing lab such as UL or Intertek/ETL. This means the device meets important safety standards. • Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged. • Keep doorways, stairways, and windows clear. A fire involving a large device such as an e-bike can trap residents if left in an escape route like a doorway, stairwell, or window. Store e-bikes and electric scooters outdoors if possible. • Recycle batteries responsibly. When it’s time to dispose of the device or replace the battery, don’t throw it in the trash or regular recycling bins. Physical damage in a compactor truck or transfer station is a common cause of lithium-ion battery fires. Instead, bring them to a safe battery recycling location. Visit www.call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you. In 2023, the Department of Fire Services launched a data collection tool to help officials track the extent of fires, explosions, and other lithium-ion battery incidents. This investigative checklist is used by the State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, and local fire investigators are encouraged to use it as well. While previous reporting suggested about 20 lithium-ion battery fires per year, the new tool has identified about 90 so far this year. Visit https://www.mass.gov/ info-details/lithium-ion-battery-safety for more lithium-ion battery safety resources. Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net “FEED THE FUNNEL” | FROM PAGE 4 cious hotel rooms, a spa, salon and fitness center, retail shops, dining and lounge venues, including Forbes Four-Star rated Rare Steakhouse, and ballroom and meeting spaces, as well as free parking for casino guests. There is a six-acre Harborwalk with pedestrian and bicycle paths, an event lawn, public art, and ornate floral displays. It is the largest private, single-phase development in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Encore Boston Harbor is a proud partner of the New England Patriots, Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox and New England Revolution. For more information, visit encorebostonharbor.com or follow Encore Boston Harbor on Instagram, X and Facebook.
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