From phones to power tools: Know the risks of lithium-ion batteries this Fire Prevention Week

October 06, 2025

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Fire Prevention Week 2025 is October 5-11, and the theme is: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” This theme aims to educate people about the safe use of lithium-ion batteries, emphasizing the importance of purchasing, charging, and recycling these batteries safely.

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, 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.

“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere. This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”

Jake Hawkins, Fire Prevention Officer, Township of Severn

Here are some tips to keep you, your family, and your community safe.

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.

Severn Fire and Emergency Services will be running Fire Drills with local schools during Fire Prevention Week and has free resources available for download on our website and for pick-up at our Administration Office (1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn). Listen for our Fire Prevention Week ads on local radio stations starting October 5.

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