The EWSWA hosts Windsor Fire and Rescue Services to Kick Off Fire Prevention Week 2026

Post-Event Media Release

October 6, 2026

The Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) kicked off Fire Prevention Week 2026, at the Windsor Public Drop Off Depot, with Windsor Fire & Rescue Services on Monday, October 5, 2026. 

This year's theme, "Charge into Fire Safety - Safe Charging is a Superpower," is all about preventing fires associated with lithium-ion batteries and promoting safe charging and disposal practices.

"Improper disposal of these batteries poses risks to our workers, the environment, and collection vehicles,” said Cathy Copot-Nepszy, Manager Waste Diversion for the EWSWA.

Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or become damaged when improperly put in curbside collection programs like garbage, which could lead to fires or explosions. The EWSWA has experienced many fires and a small explosion at its sites over the last few years as a result of this issue.

“The first line of defence is prevention through public education and developing safe habits around devices that have become part of everyday life,” said Copot-Nepzy. “Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to learn more about the safe handling of batteries and make a few small changes in your home to ensure you are properly handling these when they expire or are no longer needed.”

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in phones, laptops, power tools, powered mobility devices, headphones, lawn mowers, e-bikes, e-scooters, electric vehicles, rechargeable batteries, vapes, and more.

When these items are no longer in use, it is important to remove and safely recycle these batteries at an EWSWA Depot or at other drop-off locations as listed on Call2Recycle.ca.

Figure 1. Karen Markovich-Bailey, Communications Coordinator for the EWSWA leading the kick-off event.

Figure 2. The EWSWA, Windsor Fire & Rescue Service, and Windsor Councillor, Ed Sleiman, at the Fire Prevention Week event.