Plympton Approves New Code of Conduct, Fire Chief Warns of Lithium Battery Dangers

Town officials to sign off on ethics guidelines, while fire department seeks equipment for emerging hazard

PLYMPTON, MA - October 7 - Plympton's Board of Selectmen has approved a new Code of Conduct for town employees and board members, aiming to streamline ethical guidelines and responsibilities. The decision came during the board's Oct. 7 meeting, where implementation details were discussed.

The new code will require electronic acknowledgment from board and committee members, while town employees will need to provide formal signatures, similar to existing policies.

"I think that's probably sufficient for board and committee members acknowledging receipt of it, but I think for the employees in which it pertains to, we should do a formal signature process," Town Administrator Liz Dennehy stated during the meeting.

The board expressed concerns about potential impacts on volunteer recruitment, emphasizing the need to avoid creating barriers for civic participation. They agreed to initially focus on paid staff members.

In the same meeting, Fire Chief Cheryl Davis highlighted the growing risk of lithium-ion battery fires, a concern that's gaining national attention. These fires, which can reach temperatures over 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, pose significant challenges for firefighters.

"Lithium-ion burns at over 3,000 degrees, which is twice the temperature that our turnout gear is rated for, and there's really no way to extinguish them," Davis explained. "So for us, it's containment and keeping other batteries cool."

The Chief emphasized the importance of using compatible chargers and batteries, especially for power tools and electronic devices. She advised against purchasing uncertified products from online marketplaces.

"When you buy a new cell phone charger, make sure that the cell phone charger wattage matches up with what the cell phone is supposed to be charged at," Davis cautioned.

The fire department is seeking grants to acquire specialized equipment for handling lithium-ion battery fires. This includes containment solutions, specialized shipping containers, and protective blankets for car fires.

The Chief also stressed the need for public awareness about the risks associated with e-bikes, scooters, and hoverboards. She advised against charging these devices overnight or in unmonitored areas.

"It's not recommended that you charge those devices overnight inside your home," she said. "E-bikes, scooters, hoverboards, those things shouldn't be charged for long periods of time, especially where they can't be monitored."

The Fire Chief noted that the department is seeing an increase in call volume, including mutual aid and second calls. This trend is expected to continue as neighboring communities expand.

In other business, the board discussed the potential use of the Old Townhouse for community events. Concerns were raised about parking limitations, septic system capacity, and the need for clear regulations.

The board agreed to further investigate these issues before establishing formal rules for public use of the building. They also noted the need to review and potentially update the lease agreement with the Plympton Historical Society, which currently uses the space.

The meeting also covered updates on various town projects, including the approval of design contracts for attic insulation and front entrance restoration at the Townhouse. These projects are part of ongoing efforts to maintain and improve town facilities.

As the meeting concluded, board members praised the recent installation of lights at the local baseball field, describing it as a positive addition to community recreation.