FARGO — The American Red Cross is teaming up with local fire departments across the metro for Fire Prevention Week.

This year’s focus is on lithium ion battery safety, which officials say is a growing cause of house fires.

Red Cross volunteers are also reminding residents about their “Sound the Alarm” program, which offers free smoke alarms and home safety education. Volunteers can install the alarms in homes and help families create escape plans in case of a fire.

“The education piece is the huge part — educating the individuals in the home. Where do you go? How much time do you have once they go off? And what can you do to prepare for if and when that horrific thing happens?” said Kimberly Vosseteig, director of the Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region.

Anyone interested in a free

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