City of Philadelphia, PA

10/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/03/2025 10:10

Charge into fire safety! Fire Prevention Week 2025 focuses on lithium-ion batteries

Do you know how many lithium-ion batteries you use each day? From our smartphones, tablets, and wearable tech like watches or fitness trackers to children's toys, laptops and e-bikes - the list goes on and on. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released guidance on how to use, charge, and dispose of these batteries safely. That's why this year's theme for Fire Prevention Week is "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-ion Batteries in Your Home."

Here are five ways you can help your family charge into fire safety:

  1. Before you buy anything with a lithium-ion battery, do your homework. Check the packaging and product for a mark from a nationally recognized testing lab-that stamp means it meets real safety standards. A lot of products sold online and in stores don't meet those standards, and that can seriously increase your risk of fire.
  2. Charge any lithium-ion battery device on a hard surface-never on your bed, couch, or under a pillow. And don't overcharge. Once it's at 100%, unplug and move on. No overnight charging!
  3. Charging something big like an e-bike, scooter, or power tool with a lithium-ion battery? Do it outside. Use a flat, dry area away from direct sunlight, anything wet, kids, or tripping hazards. And make sure your bike or device is secure-so it doesn't fall while charging.
  4. Anything with a lithium-ion battery-phones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools-can become a fire hazard if it's not charged safely. Always use the charger that comes with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. If the cord only works when you bend it just right, it's time to replace it.
  5. Don't toss lithium-ion batteries or devices in the trash or regular recycling bins-they can start a fire. Drop them off at a legit battery recycling spot near you, which you can locate through the City's website here. It's not only safer, but also better for the environment.

You can find more lithium-ion battery safety information on the NFPA's dedicated webpage. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram to see more fire safety info and keep up with the PFD.

City of Philadelphia, PA published this content on October 03, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 03, 2025 at 16:10 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]