Beginning October 5, 2025, communities across the nation will observe Fire Prevention Week, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and educating the public on critical fire safety issues. This year's theme, "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home," is more relevant than ever. As these batteries power everything from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools, understanding their associated risks and how to safely use and charge them has become an essential part of modern fire prevention.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) emphasizes that while lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, improper charging and handling can pose a significant fire hazard. The key to prevention starts with knowing the risks. These batteries can overheat if they are overcharged, damaged, or charged with an incompatible cord. If the device is excessively hot to the touch, it may be at risk of a fire. A telltale sign of a problem can be a strange odor, a change in color, or excessive heat from the device. Also, be alert to the device emitting any hissing, cracking, or popping sounds. The NFPA urges everyone to use only the charging cable that came with the device and to never charge devices on soft surfaces like a bed or a couch, as this can trap heat and lead to a fire.

A crucial part of this year's campaign is the importance of proper charging habits. Never leave a device to charge overnight or when you are away. Instead, charge it on a hard, flat surface where you can monitor it. If a device shows any sign of damage—a dent, a puncture, or a swelling in the battery pack—it should be taken out of service immediately and disposed of properly. Don’t throw it in the regular trash, as this can cause a fire at a waste facility. Instead, take it to a designated recycling center that handles electronic waste.