From Phones to Power Tools: GNWT Urges Residents to Know the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries this Fire Prevention Week

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is recognizing Fire Prevention Week™ from October 5 to 11, 2025. This year's theme, "Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home," emphasizes the importance of buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely.

Many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power and lawn tools, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most rechargeable products rely on them.

While convenient and powerful, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if damaged or misused. To reduce these risks, it is important to know which devices in your home use them and to handle them properly.

This year's Fire Prevention Week campaign encourages all residents to understand how to use lithium-ion batteries safely and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.

Buy only listed products

• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
• 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 it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• If you need a new charger, buy one 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 catch fire.
• Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them.

The GNWT encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year's FPW theme, "Charge into Fire Safety™."

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.

For media requests, please contact: Peter Tah Senior Communications and Planning Advisor Municipal and Community Affairs Government of the Northwest Territories [email protected] 867-767-9162 ext. 21012