III 118th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 281 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES June 22, 2023 Mr. Carper (for himself and Mr. Boozman ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of the week of June 18 through June 24, 2023, as National Firefighter Safety Week in the United States and supporting the goals and ideals of National Firefighter Safety Week to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Whereas firefighters play a critical role in safeguarding lives and property; Whereas the safety and well-being of firefighters are of the utmost importance and it is crucial to equip them with the necessary knowledge and resources to perform their duties effectively; Whereas the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Fire Department Safety Officers Association, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and the National Fire Protection Association are the leading organizations committed to enhancing firefighter safety and promoting best practices; Whereas lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly prevalent in modern society and are utilized in a wide range of consumer products, posing unique risks when involved in incidents and fires; Whereas the improper recycling or disposal of lithium-ion batteries causes fires, endangering the firefighters called upon to quell these blazes; Whereas programs, such as the assistance to firefighters grant program under section 33(c) of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 ( 15 U.S.C. 2229(c) ) and the staffing for adequate fire and emergency response grant program under section 34 of such Act ( 15 U.S.C. 2229a ), support initiatives aimed at enhancing firefighter safety, including training programs, research, and the development of specialized equipment and tools; and Whereas, during National Firefighter Safety Week, from June 18 through June 24, 2023, leading firefighter safety organizations are conducting a Safety Stand Down to raise awareness among firefighters about the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion battery incidents and to provide comprehensive training on response protocols and safety measures: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the designation of National Firefighter Safety Week; (2) expresses strong support for— (A) the efforts of firefighter safety organizations to promote firefighter safety relating to lithium-ion battery incidents; (B) training programs to educate firefighters about the risks and hazards associated with lithium-ion battery incidents; and (C) participation of fire departments in the United States in National Firefighter Safety Week; (3) encourages— (A) efforts to develop standards and best practices that emphasize firefighter safety in dealing with lithium-ion battery incidents; and (B) public awareness regarding the safe use, safe storage, and proper disposal or recycling of lithium-ion batteries; (4) supports community outreach programs that educate the public about the potential hazards and proper response to lithium-ion battery incidents; and (5) supports the goals of National Firefighter Safety Week.