Hartford Fire & Rescue Wisconsin

10/06/2026

Lithium-ion batteries power more of our everyday lives than ever before—from phones and laptops to power tools, e-bikes, toys, and countless other devices. But when these batteries are damaged, improperly used, or fail, the results can happen fast. This video from the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) shows why understanding these batteries matters and why this year’s Fire Prevention Week message, “Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” is so important.

A few simple habits can make a difference:
- Use the charger designed or approved for your device.
- Charge on a hard, flat surface—not a bed, couch, or other soft material.
- Stop using batteries that are swollen, damaged, unusually hot, leaking, or making unusual noises.
- Unplug devices once they are fully charged.

Technology continues to change—and so do the hazards that come with it. Fire prevention means changing with them.

🔋 Charge safely. Know the warning signs. Take CHARGE of battery safety.

10/06/2026

Use the cord and charger that came with your device or ones approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.

10/05/2026

Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging. These batteries store more energy, and fires can grow quickly if they fail.

10/04/2026

In October of 1871, the Great Chicago Fire tore through the city, destroying more than 17,000 buildings and leaving approximately 100,000 people homeless. While the exact source of ignition was never definitively determined, the disaster showed just how quickly fire could spread.

Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has helped turn the lessons learned from the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 into education that helps keep our communities safe. This year, that message focuses on modern fire risks. Our homes, workplaces, and everyday lives look very different. Technology has given us smartphones, laptops, cordless tools, e-bikes, scooters, toys, and countless other rechargeable devices. As more of the devices we use every day rely on rechargeable batteries, safe charging habits matter more than ever.

Throughout Fire Prevention Week, we’ll be sharing simple ways you can safely charge the devices your family uses every day. Technology will continue to change. The need to understand the risks will not.

10/03/2026

This week, our Joint Citizens Academy shifted its focus back to EMS, for trauma care and some of the advanced skills our providers use when seconds matter.

Participants learned about trauma assessment, practiced tourniquet application, and got hands-on experience with intravenous (IV) and intraosseous (IO) access, along with airway management and intubation.

The training was led by one of our Critical Care Flight Paramedics, Patrick. His experience helped give the class a look at how these skills are used in both prehospital emergency medicine and critical care.

A special thank you to the Southeast Regional Trauma Advisory Council for providing the training supplies that made this hands-on experience possible.

Another great night of learning and another look behind the scenes at the training and skills our emergency responders rely on every day.

10/02/2026

We’re just over a week away from our Annual Open House!
Be sure to spread the word, and join us on Saturday, October 10 from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM at our Fire Station for a morning of hands-on activities, demonstrations, safety education, and fun for all ages.

And keep an eye out for special appearances from Sparky the Fire Dog and Smokey Bear!

10/01/2026

10/01/2026

Fire Prevention Month starts today and Hartford Fire & Rescue is teaming up once again with The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) to spread this year's theme of: “Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” This message focuses on the everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safer.

⚡️Use Your Charging Superpowers⚡️

🔌 Cheap charger? Don’t chance it! Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
🛏️ Soft surface? Hard pass! Charge on a hard, flat surface like a table or desk.
🔋Fully charged? Time to unplug.
🛴 For tools and rides, charge outside.
🥵 Feels hot? Stop using it. Watch for excessive heat when charging.
✈️ On a flight? Keep it in sight (when charging).

Stay tuned throughout Fire Prevention Month on how to plug in, power up, and stay safe!

09/29/2026

Back in August, we asked our followers just how much hose you thought we had. The totals are in! Throughout August, and even into September, our crews tested 18,228' (or 3.45 miles.....) of fire hose as part of our annual hose testing.

NFPA standards establish minimum hose complements for different types of fire apparatus. Each year, any hose that does not pass is removed from service and replaced. A single 50' length of hose can range between $50 - $2,800 depending on size and type.