Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week is running from October 5 – 11 this year and the theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day, such as smartphones, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. It’s important that, to keep you and those around you safe, you know which of your household items are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home 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.