Fire Prevention

The theme for the 2026 Fire Prevention Week is Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.   Here are some important safety actions when you charge you device that uses a lithium-ion battery:

• Use only the charger and cord provided or approved by the manufacturer. Incorrect chargers can damage batteries and increase fire risk.
• Charge devices on hard, flat surfaces such as tables or desks. Avoid beds, couches, or under pillows where heat can become trapped.
• Stop using a device if it becomes excessively hot, swells, smokes, or emits an unusual odor. These can be signs of battery failure.
• Unplug devices once fully charged. Extended charging can create unnecessary heat and stress on the battery.
• Charge larger battery-powered equipment, such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools, outside and away from exits. These batteries store significant energy and can produce rapidly developing fires.
• When flying, keep charging devices within sight and never charge them in overhead bins. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on aircraft. Quick access to an overheating battery is critical for crew response.

To learn more about the National Fire Protection Association and Fire Prevention Week, visit fpw.org. Additional Fire Prevention Week resources for children, caregivers, and educators can be found at sparky.org and sparkyschoolhouse.org.