| Fire Prevention Week 2026 will take place from Sunday, October 4 through Saturday, October 10, 2026. This year’s official theme announced by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is "Charge Into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower". The campaign centers around building everyday habits to handle lithium-ion batteries safely and reduce the risk of fast-moving rechargeable device fires.
Core Safety Superpowers to Practice With everything from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and tools running on lithium-ion batteries, fire service leaders are emphasizing critical daily routines to keep your home safe.
Surfaces Matter: Always charge your phones, laptops, and devices on hard, flat surfaces. Never charge devices on beds, pillows, or couches, which trap heat and exponentially increase fire risks.
Match the Gear: Only use the manufacturer-approved charging cords and adapters that came with your device. Cheap, unapproved third-party replacements frequently overheat.
.Unplug at 100%: Do not leave electronics plugged in continuously or unattended overnight. Unplug them once they hit a full charge to prevent cell stress and degradation.
.Clear the Exits: If you use large micro mobility items like e-scooters or e-bikes, store and charge them away from your primary emergency paths (doors, windows, and stairways) so your escape route stays clear if a failure happens.
Spot the Warning Signs: Immediately stop using a battery if it feels excessively hot to the touch, starts to swell or leak, changes shape, or emits an odd odor. If you see smoke or sparks, get out immediately and call 9-1-1. |
