Fire Prevention Week, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is set for October 5-11, 2025, with the theme of “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The focus on lithium-ion batteries aims to better educate the public on how to buy, charge and dispose of them safely.
Most of the electronics in our homes — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. If not used correctly or damaged, they can overheat and start a fire or explode.
Three ways to help prevent fires from lithium-ion batteries are:
Buy only listed products
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it and look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL or CSA.
- Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
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 charge it under a pillow, on a bed or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
- 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.
For more information on battery safety, visit fpw.org or the Battery Safety page on the Clemson University Fire & EMS website.
