Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week takes place from October 5 to 11. This year’s theme, as announced by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home”, which focuses on helping people buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.

Lithium-ion batteries power many everyday items like cell phones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools, toys, and more. When damaged, improperly charged, stored, or discarded, they can overheat and start fires.

To reduce the risk of battery-related fires, follow these guidelines:

• Buy safely: Purchase devices, batteries and charging equipment from reputable brands and look for products listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
• Charge properly: Use the charger supplied with the device (or a manufacturer-approved replacement). Do not keep charging a battery after it is fully charged. Avoid charging unattended or overnight whenever possible.
• Store with care: Store batteries away from extreme heat, direct sunlight, and anything flammable. Keep large batteries (e-bikes, scooters) in well-ventilated areas and not in exit paths.
• Watch for warning signs: Stop using a battery or device that shows unusual heat, odor, swelling, popping noises, or discoloration. Have repairs done by qualified professionals.
• Dispose and recycle correctly: Never put lithium-ion batteries in household trash or curbside recycling. Use designated battery recycling/drop-off locations.

Ever wonder what makes batteries so powerful and sometimes dangerous? Rechargeable batteries are in tablets, phones, scooters, and toys, but if they get too hot or damaged, they can cause a fire.

Discover the power of lithium-ion batteries, how thermal runaway happens, and simple tips to help keep their devices and themselves safe.