INDIANA – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ for more than 100 years, has announced that this year’s theme will address the growing fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Fire Prevention Week, running from October 5 to 11, 2025, will be themed “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
Lithium-ion batteries power nearly all modern household electronics, including smartphones, laptops, e-cigarettes, and power tools. While largely safe, if damaged or misused, these batteries can overheat, leading to fires or explosions.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Making sure the public knows how to use them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they pose.”
Reports of fires and explosions involving these batteries have been increasing, underscoring the need for public education on safe usage, handling, and disposal.
Three Key Safety Messages
This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme provides critical information and guidance focused on three core messages:
1. BUY Only Listed Products
- When purchasing products with lithium-ion batteries, look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which signifies the product meets established safety standards.
- Be cautious of products sold online or in stores that lack safety certifications, as they may pose an increased risk of fire.
2. CHARGE Devices Safely
- Always use the cables and chargers that come with the product or those approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge devices on a hard surface—never on a bed, couch, or under a pillow, as this can cause overheating.
- Avoid overcharging devices; unplug them or remove the battery when fully charged.
3. DISPOSE OF/RECYCLE Batteries Responsibly
- Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins, as they can ignite.
- Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Consumers can visit www.call2recycle.org to locate a nearby recycling drop-off location.
Fire Prevention Week is the oldest U.S. public health observance on record and is celebrated across North America every October. To learn more about this year’s theme, visit fpw.org.
