This week, Oct. 5-11, is National Fire Prevention Week, and the theme of the 2025 campaign is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
The national organization and our local firefighters are working this week to educate the public about using these batteries safely.
Specifically, the message focuses on the importance of buying, charging and recycling lithium-ion batteries responsibly.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this kind of battery.
These include devices like mobile phones, laptops, power tools, tablets, cordless vacuum cleaners and toys — and especially e-vehicles.
Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small place.
These batteries can overheat, start a fire, or explode if overcharged or damaged. By learning how to buy, charge and recycle these batteries, you can help prevent a fire in your home.
•Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
•Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
•Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
•Stop using your device right away if the battery smells weird, gets too hot, makes popping noises, changes in shape or color. If it is safe, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. Call 9-1-1.
