Community Notices

As the school year continues, many students are using devices such as laptops, tablets, phones, e-bikes and e-scooters. Most of these devices contain lithium-ion batteries, which have become part of everyday life, but need to be used safely. 

Fire services are responding to an increasing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, often caused by incorrect charging or leaving devices unattended. That’s why fire safety at home is especially important during the school year. 

You can help reduce the risk by: 

Only using the charger and battery designed for each device 
Unplugging devices once fully charged 
Never charging devices on soft surfaces like beds or couches 
Not charging devices overnight, or when no one is home 
Charging larger devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters away from living spaces and keeping them clear of exits 
Regularly checking devices and stopping use if a battery looks damaged, swollen or overheats

You can watch Fire Rescue Victoria’s safety video here(opens in a new window)

It’s also important to make sure smoke alarms are working and tested every month. Fire Rescue Victoria recommends installing smoke alarms in bedrooms, living rooms and near areas where devices are charged—because working smoke alarms save lives. 

For more tips on lithium-ion battery safety, visit: https://www.frv.vic.gov.au/battery-safety(opens in a new window)

A few simple habits can help protect your home and your loved ones. 

Yarra Parenting Information sessions August/September

Secure Connections is presented by Frances Bilbao, clinical psychologist for a session on ways to empower parents and carers to nurture secure attachments with their children. Topics include: practical tools to understand your child’s emotional needs, how to respond with sensitivity and strengthening your bond. This is an online Zoom session on Wednesday 26 August @ 12pm.

Navigating Fatherhood also presented by Frances Bilbao, is for dads to discuss ways to navigate the early years of parenting. Topics include: practical strategies, fostering strong relationshiops, prioritising mental health, managing the emotional chages when you become a parent. This is an online Zoom session on Thursday 3 September @ 7pm.

Preparing for school in 2027? is is an online panel discussion around the best ways to support your child when they start school. Discussion topics include: school readiness skills, developing resilience, what to expect on the first day, additional resources. This is an online Zoom session on Tuesday 8 September @ 1pm.

First Aid for new parents delivered by First Aid Management & Training to help bring peace of mind in the early parenting journey. The course covers Basic Life Support; CPR for baby & child; care of the unresponsive baby; seizures & febrile convulsions; drowning, and choking. This is an in person event on Wednesday 9 September @ 6pm in Carlton. Please note: There is a $60 per person cost to attend this session.

Food 4 Thought is presented by a Yarra Maternal and Child Health Nurse and Paediatric Allied Health Practitioners from North Richmond Community Health centre and covers: how and when to introduce solids; safety, allergies and choking management. Online on Tuesday 15 September @ 1pm.

See link below for further details:

Parenting information sessions | Yarra City Council