Ohio Fire Marshal Urges Ohioans to Reduce Fire Hazards Through Smarter, Safer Charging This Fire Prevention Week

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of State Fire Marshal is partnering with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote Fire Prevention Week this week. Taking place Oct. 4-10, this year's theme is "Charge Into Fire Safety," which highlights simple, everyday charging habits that can help reduce the rising risk of lithium-ion battery fires in homes and communities.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices that Ohioans use daily including phones, e-bikes, laptops, power tools, scooters, headphones, toys, and more. When charged or stored improperly, these batteries can fail and sometimes lead to thermal runaway, which causes intense fires that can spread rapidly.

"Our goal is straightforward: have fewer fires and safer homes," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "By understanding and adopting smart charging practices, Ohioans can help ensure that the technology we rely on doesn't become a hazard that can put the safety of our loved ones at risk."

Charging Safety Tips Remember

To help reduce the risk of a fire or dangerous incident, Ohioans are urged to do the following:

• Use the correct charger: Stick with the charger and power adapter that came with your device or one that is certified by the manufacturer. Using an off-brand charger may be convenient, but it can overload the battery and potentially cause overheating.
• Keep batteries cool: Charging on soft surfaces like beds or couches can trap heat. Instead, only place charging devices on a hard, nonflammable surface and keep them out of direct sunlight.
• Give devices space: Avoid charging devices in areas that are cluttered or near anything that can burn. Remember, batteries need airflow to stay cool.
• Charge where you can see them: Don't leave devices charging overnight or unattended for long periods of time. If you see an item is fully charged, remove it from the charger. Recognizing and acting upon early signs of battery trouble, such as unusual heat, odor, or swelling, can prevent a dangerous situation.
• Protect batteries from damage: Immediately stop using batteries that are crushed, punctured, or swollen. Even small drops can damage internal components and increase fire risk.
• Know the warning signs: If a battery starts smoking, making popping sounds, or feels extremely hot, immediately move it away from anything that can burn - if you can do so safely - and call 911.
• Ensure products have been approved: Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, ETL, or CSA on the packaging and product. That stamp means it has met important safety standards. Many products sold online and in stores may not meet these safety standards, which could increase the risk of fire. If you have purchased a product that doesn't contain one of those approved stamps, you should attempt to return it and discontinue using it.

Putting Prevention First

Fire Prevention Week is also an opportunity for Ohioans to review their overall fire safety preparedness in their homes and workplaces. Additional fire prevention tips include:

• Check smoke alarms regularly: Test all smoke alarms at least once a month, replace batteries yearly, and replace smoke alarms every ten years. Working smoke alarms are the most effective early-warning tools in the event of a fire.
• Install alarms in the right places: Place alarms on every level of your home, including basements, and inside of each sleeping area. Make sure alarms are interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Create and practice an escape plan: Families should map out two ways to get out of every room and practice their home fire escape plan twice a year. Fire officials highlight that simple, repeated practice saves lives when seconds matter.
• Keep heating equipment safe: Maintain a three-foot clear zone around space heaters and never leave them running unattended. Have furnaces, fireplaces, and chimneys inspected annually to prevent dangerous buildup.
• Cook with caution: Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, or broiling food. Cooking fires remain one of the leading causes of home fires throughout the state.

"Whether you're at home, on the job, or on the go, it only takes a moment to make sure your devices are charging safely," Reardon added. "As these batteries become more prevalent in our lives, the stronger habits we build today, the better the chances that can prevent tragedies tomorrow."

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and NFPA's battery safety guidance, visit nfpa.org or com.ohio.gov.

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About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.