Fire Prevention Week Targets Battery Charging Hazards
NFPA’s annual campaign highlights charging practices and warning signs of lithium-ion battery failure.
- By Chelsey Arries
- Sep 23, 2026
Safe charging of lithium-ion batteries will be the focus of Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 4-10, as the National Fire Protection Association draws attention to fire risks involving rechargeable devices.
The campaign, themed “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” addresses batteries used in phones, laptops, power tools, electric bicycles and other equipment. Damaged or improperly charged batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode, according to NFPA.
The association recommends using the charger and cord supplied with a device or replacements approved by its manufacturer. Devices should charge on hard, flat surfaces where heat can dissipate. Beds, couches and pillows can restrict airflow and trap heat.
Users should stop using devices that become unusually hot, swell, emit smoke or develop an unusual odor, NFPA stated. These conditions can indicate battery damage or failure. The association also advises unplugging devices once charging is complete.
For larger battery-powered equipment, including electric bicycles, scooters and power tools, NFPA recommends charging outdoors and away from exits. Larger batteries store more energy, and fires involving them can spread quickly.
NFPA said it does not yet track the number of U.S. home fires involving lithium-ion batteries. However, reports from fire departments, news organizations and other sources have raised concerns about the hazards.
The annual campaign provides fire safety education through local fire departments, schools and community organizations. NFPA has sponsored Fire Prevention Week for more than 100 years.
About the Author
Chelsey Arries is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.