Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week (FPW) Campaign from October 4-10, is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) for more than 100 years aims to highlight the growing role rechargeable lithium-ion batteries play in everyday life and how using, charging and disposing of them safely can reduce the risk of fire.
Phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, toys, e-bikes, scooters and many other devices use rechargeable batteries that store a significant amount of energy in a small space. When a battery is damaged, improperly charged or exposed to excessive heat, it can overheat, catch fire or explode.
According to data cited by the Washington State Fire Marshal from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 25,000 incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires or overheating were reported nationwide between 2017 and 2022.
“Rechargeable devices are part of our everyday lives, which makes safe charging habits increasingly important,” said Division Chief/Public Information Officer Steve Richards. “This is a fire risk we have experienced right here in our community. A few simple choices when charging, storing and disposing of batteries can help prevent a fire in your home.”
Safety Tips to Follow:
- Use the correct charger. Use the charging cord and equipment that came with your device or equipment approved by the manufacturer.
- Choose a safe place to charge. Charge batteries and devices on a hard, stable surface and away from clothing, paper, upholstered furniture and other materials that can easily catch fire.
- Watch for warning signs. Stop using a device or battery if it becomes unusually hot, changes shape, swells, leaks, produces an unusual odor or begins smoking.
- Unplug when charging is complete. Avoid leaving devices plugged in longer than necessary.
- Keep exits clear. Do not charge e-bikes, scooters or other battery-powered devices where they could block an exit or escape route.
- Dispose of batteries properly. Do not place rechargeable batteries in household garbage or recycling. Follow local guidance for safe battery recycling and disposal.
Join Us for Our Fire Prevention Week Open House
We are hosting an open house in support of this year’s FPW campaign. This open house will be October 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Station 72, 3809 5th St SE, Puyallup, WA.
The open house will feature:
- Kitchen safety, including simple steps to help prevent cooking fires.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm safety, including where alarms should be installed and when they should be replaced.
- Rechargeable battery safety and recycling with LRI Waste Connections, including how to safely dispose of rechargeable batteries.
- How and when to call 911 with South Sound 911, helping children and families understand what to do and what to expect during an emergency.
Mark your calendar for October 10, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, and bring the whole family to learn how to “Charge into Fire Safety”!
