Escambia County Fire Rescue Marks National Fire Prevention Week With Battery Safety Focus

Escambia County Fire Rescue is joining the nationwide observance of National Fire Prevention Week, running October 4-10, with this year's emphasis on safe charging practices for lithium-ion batteries found in everyday electronics.

The week's theme—"Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower"—highlights the often-overlooked risks of improperly charging smartphones, power tools, laptops, toys, and other devices. According to the fire department, damaged or misused lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode, making safe habits essential for home safety.

Fire Rescue recommends charging devices on hard, flat surfaces like tables or desks rather than soft surfaces such as beds or couches, which trap heat and block airflow. Larger batteries in power tools, e-bikes, and outdoor equipment should be charged outside when possible. Residents should use manufacturer-approved chargers—cheap or off-brand alternatives may not meet safety standards—and look for certification marks from testing labs like UL, ETL, or CSA on packaging. Once fully charged, devices should be unplugged promptly, as leaving them plugged in can stress batteries and increase overheating risk.

If a device begins to swell, smoke, or emit a strange odor, residents should immediately stop using it. Old lithium-ion batteries should be recycled at certified locations, which can be found through Call2Recycle.org. National Fire Prevention Week, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association since 1922, is the longest-running public health and safety observance in U.S. history, with presidential proclamations backing the annual event since 1925.