Football fans heading to the Mizzou-Florida game recently got more than just game-day excitement. 

Before kickoff, Jeff Strawn, the University of Missouri’s fire marshal with Environmental Health & Safety, joined members of the Columbia Fire Department to help educate the public about an increasingly important safety topic: lithium-ion batteries. 

The teams set up outside Gate 5E of Memorial Stadium, between Hearnes Center and Faurot Field, for about two and a half hours before the game. Their goal was to kick off Fire Prevention Month in October while raising awareness about the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. 

The outreach effort drew a steady crowd, with an estimated 200 to 300 people stopping by the tents. Many visitors took part in hands-on fire extinguisher training, which proved especially popular with families. Parents and children had the chance to learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher through an interactive training simulator. 

Along with extinguisher training, safety professionals shared practical information about lithium-ion battery safety, including how to recognize damaged or swelling batteries, proper disposal methods, safe charging practices and the importance of using manufacturer-approved chargers. 

One of the biggest takeaways from the event was how much interest people had in learning about lithium-ion batteries. According to organizers, many visitors knew very little about the risks these batteries can pose or the damage battery fires can cause. 

Visitors also received bottled water, along with Mizzou Environmental Health & Safety pins and stickers. 

"We had a lot of great conversations," Strawn said. "It's clear this is information people find valuable, and we're glad we had the opportunity to help raise awareness while connecting with the community on game day." 

The event served as a strong start to Fire Prevention Month and highlighted the importance of public education when it comes to emerging fire safety risks.