Fire Prevention Month Observed by Area First Responders

POTTSTOWN PA – Local fire departments, fire companies, and their members across Montgomery, Berks and Chester are again observing October as National Fire Prevention Month. Their schedules recently included a series of fire station open houses, and offering classroom presentations to teach fire safety.

Additionally, firefighters and other first responders are being recognized this month by the public for their heroism and bravery.

Fire station open houses were planned for the public by companies in Sanatoga, New Hanover, and Skippack. Those attending enjoyed rides on pumpers and other trucks, and benefited from fire-fighting demonstrations. Some met and talked with emergency first responders. Others, particularly kids, spent time in variety of fun activities and games.

The NorCo (North Coventry) Fire Company and other units conducted a fire apparatus show in the parking lot of The Shoppes at Coventry. The annual display, free to the public, attracted more than 70 vehicles. It also offered treats and tours of equipment.

In Upper Providence, the township Fire and Emergency Services units were booked for 18 different prevention events during the month.

On Sunday (Oct. 19), firefighters, local police officers, and members of the Pennsylvania State Police all were recognized by Trinity Lighthouse Church, 66 S. Limerick Rd., Royersford, in a special first responder service.

Elsewhere, some Montgomery County firefighters beyond the Travels With The Post coverage area were honored by respective township and borough officials for their years of service.

The 2025 Message: ‘Charge Into Fire Safety’

In schools and public presentations this year, many local fire departments and companies are addressing issues raised by the National Fire Protection Association about safely using lithium-ion batteries in home and mobile devices. Its campaign is called “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Specially developed for younger audiences, the campaign aims to help them “understand the power and potential danger of lithium-ion batteries, and take an active role in staying safe,” the association explains. The batteries have been known to overheat and cause fires if not safety-certified, or if improperly charged or recycled.

The association emphasizes;

• Buying only lithium-ion battery products that bear a safety certification mark, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), ETL (Intertek, formerly Electrical Testing Laboratories), or CSA (The CSA Group, formerly the Canadian Standards Association). Certifications mean the devices meet important safety standards;
• Charging devices safely by using only manufacturer cords and instructions, replacing charges that meet manufacturer standards or recommendations, and avoiding overcharging; and
• Recycling lithium-ion batteries responsibly at safe locations identified online by Call2Recycle.org.

Photos by Travels With The Post, taken Oct. 5 (2025) at the Sanatoga Fire Company open house