Frederick County Observes Fire Prevention Week

FREDERICK, Md. - This week is Fire Prevention Week and the national theme focuses on rechargeable battery safety. The Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services encourages members of the community to get involved and learn how to properly buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries.

Over the past two years, Frederick County has seen ten incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, headphones, e-bikes, and even toys.

"As lithium-ion batteries become a part of nearly every household, it's critical that we understand how to use them safely," said Fire Chief Tom Coe. "One small mistake - like using the wrong charger or overcharging a device - can have serious consequences. This year's Fire Prevention Week theme is aimed at giving community members the knowledge they need to protect their families and their homes."

While lithium-ion batteries are efficient and reliable, they can become hazardous if damaged or misused - posing risks of overheating, fire, or explosion. Knowing how to safely use and dispose of rechargeable batteries is more important than ever.

Buy only listed products.

• Look for devices and batteries that are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (such as UL, ETL, or CSA).
• Be cautious of generic or unbranded products, especially online, as they may not meet essential safety standards.

Charge devices safely.

• Always use the charger and cable provided by 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, flat surface. Never under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch.
• Don't overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it is fully charged.

Recycle batteries responsibly.

• Don't throw rechargeable batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins - they can catch fire.
• Take batteries to a certified recycling location. Visit www.Call2Recycle.org to find a drop-off site near you or stop by the Division of Solid Waste & Recycling.

Frederick County Fire and Rescue is excited to offer a variety of events and resources throughout the month of October to help you be better prepared in the event of a fire

• NFPA & Domino's Fire Safety Program: On Wednesday, October 8from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., we will be participating in NFPA & Domino's Fire Safety Program in partnership with the Westview Domino's (store #4650 - 4959 Westview Dr, Frederick, 21703). If you call to order a pizza during this timeframe, you may be randomly selected to have your pizza delivered by your local firefighters, who will also test your smoke alarm. If your smoke alarm is working, your pizza is free! If you need a new alarm, we will have you covered there too. To order, call (301) 750-7600.
• Division of Solid Waste & Recycling's Home Hazardous Waste Drop Off: Looking to safely dispose of your old rechargeable batteries, smoke alarm, or carbon monoxide alarm. Some of your firefighters will be helping out at the Home Hazardous Waste Drop Off of Saturday, October 11 from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. at NYMEO Field/Keys Stadium (21 Stadium Drive, Frederick 21703).
• Frederick County Fire & Rescue Open House: Fire & Rescue is excited to invite you to attend our first Open House on Saturday, October 18 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at FSK Mall (5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick 21703). Join us for live demonstrations, fire and life safety education, family-friendly activities, food trucks, equipment displays, and more!

To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/FPW2025.

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CONTACT: Sarah Campbell
Communications Manager, MPIO
Frederick County Fire & Rescue Services
301-600-1716