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“Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

 

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.

If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. 

South Metro Fire Rescue encourages all residents to be aware of their devices and 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. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
A burnt phone warns of lithium-ion battery fire risk. Use original charging cables for safety. South Metro Fire Rescue message.
Charge Devices Safely - Use the cable that came with the device.
A scooter on fire indoors with safety text warning about lithium-ion battery risks and unplugging devices when charged.
Charge Devices Safely - Unplug your device once it is fully charged.
A burnt phone warns of lithium-ion battery fire risk. Use original charging cables for safety. South Metro Fire Rescue message.
A scooter on fire indoors with safety text warning about lithium-ion battery risks and unplugging devices when charged.

 

For more information on the risks Lithium-Ion Batteries pose to you and your home, visit South Metro's LITHIUM-ION BATTERY DANGERS page. 

 

SMFR is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s FPW campaign, including our 3rd Annual Elementary School Fire Prevention Week Challenge! Additional events will be posted here and on our SOCIAL MEDIA.. 

Text about the 3rd Annual Fire Prevention Week Elementary School Challenge with flames at the bottom.
History of Fire Prevention Week in the United States 

Fire Prevention week is the longest running public health campaign in the United States. 

 

Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed nationwide as a way to raise awareness about fire safety. Each year during Fire Prevention Week, firefighters, teachers, and families work together to share important lessons that can save lives by preventing fires and reducing fire-related injuries.

 

The week is recognized annually in October, during the week of October 9th, in remembrance of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. That tragic event began on October 8 and claimed more than 250 lives, left 100,000 people homeless, destroyed over 17,000 buildings, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land. Fire Prevention Week serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and the role each of us plays in protecting our homes, schools, and communities.

 

 

 

To find out more about FPW programs and activities in South Metro's district, please contact our Risk Reduction Team at 720-989-2000 or email us at ReducingRisk@SouthMetro.org.

 

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit www.FPW.org.

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