The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has kicked off its annual Fire Prevention Week, which is celebrated throughout North America every October and is the oldest U.S. public health observance on record. The 2025 campaign will run Oct. 5-11.

This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” aims to educate everyone about using these batteries safely. Although the campaign focuses on homes, its fire safety tips can be applied across workplaces, schools, and other types of facilities.
Many electronics—smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few—are powered by lithium-ion batteries. According to the NFPA, these batteries are largely used without incident but have the potential to overheat, start a fire, or explode if not used correctly or damaged. The group said reports of fire incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have been on the rise in recent years, reinforcing the importance of better educating the public about how to use, handle, and recycle them safely.
The campaign offers the following safety tips:
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 such as UL, ETL, or CSA on the packaging and product, which means that it meets established 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 cables that come with the product to charge it. Also, charge the device in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- 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 www.call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at the NFPA. “Making sure the public knows how to use them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they pose.”
Learn more about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety here.