| The wait is over: Sparky the Fire Dog is helping introduce this year’s Fire Prevention Week™ theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
Fire Prevention Week 2026 will be observed October 4–10, with this year’s campaign focused on safe charging habits and lithium-ion battery fire prevention. From cell phones and tablets to laptops, e-bikes, scooters, power tools, toys, and other rechargeable devices, lithium-ion batteries are part of everyday life for families, students, workers, and first responders.
While these devices are convenient and widely used, fire officials remind the public that they must be charged and stored properly. Damaged batteries, improper chargers, overcharging, and charging devices in unsafe locations can increase the risk of overheating, smoke, fire, or explosion.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign will help people of all ages learn simple steps to reduce those risks. Residents are encouraged to use only manufacturer-approved charging equipment, charge devices on a hard surface, keep them away from beds, couches, papers, and other flammable materials, and stop using any battery or device that becomes unusually hot, changes shape, leaks, smells odd, or makes unusual noises.
Families should also avoid charging devices overnight or when no one is home whenever possible. Larger devices such as e-bikes and scooters should never be charged in hallways, near exits, or in areas that could block a way out during an emergency.
“Rechargeable devices are part of daily life, but safe charging habits are just as important as having working smoke alarms,” department officials said. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is a great reminder that small actions can make a big difference in preventing fires.”
Community members are encouraged to watch the Fire Prevention Week video and learn more about this year’s campaign at fpw.org. Fire officials also remind residents to test smoke alarms monthly, practice a home escape plan, and call 911 immediately if a device begins smoking, catches fire, or creates a safety hazard.
Safe charging is a superpower — and everyone can use it to help protect their home, family, and community. |
