'Charge into Fire Safety' During Fire Prevention Week 2025

Escambia County Fire Rescue invites residents to observe National Fire Prevention Week 2025 from Oct. 5-11. This year's theme is "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home," with the goal of better educating the public about how to purchase, charge, and dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely.

Most of the electronics in our homes, like smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. If not used correctly or damaged, they can overheat and catch fire or explode.

ECFR and the National Fire Protection Association share the following tips when purchasing, using and discarding lithium-ion batteries:

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 laboratory on the packaging and product. This means that the item has met established 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 cables that come with the product to charge the battery. Additionally, charge the device according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• If a new charger is needed, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• Charge the device on a hard surface. Don't charge items, like cell phones, under a pillow, on a bed or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• Don't overcharge devices. Unplug the charger or remove the battery when it's fully charged.

Dispose of/Recycle Batteries Responsibly

• Don't throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins. This could cause a fire.
• Recycling a device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit Call2Recycle.org to find a nearby recycling location.

NFPA has been the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week since 1922. According to the National Archives and Records Administration's Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The President of the United States has signed a proclamation declaring a national observance during that week every year since 1925. Visit https://www.firepreventionweek.org for more safety information.