Fire Prevention Week 2026: Charge Into Safety
October 4-10 is Fire Prevention Week! This year's campaign from the NFPA focuses on safe charging practices to help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. From phones and laptops to e-bikes and other rechargeable devices, simple charging habits can make a big difference in keeping homes and communities safe.
Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. 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 start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location.
Tips to prevent lithium-ion battery fires:
- Use the correct charger for your device
- Charge devices on a hard, flat surface
- Look for warning signs from devices such as heat and smell
- Unplug when charging is at 100%
- Charge e-bikes, e-scooters, and larger electronics outside
- Keep charging devices in sight when on a plane
- Store batteries at room temperature and away from anything that can catch fire
- Whatever you do, don’t toss lithium-ion (or any) batteries in the trash!
Not sure what to do with old batteries? Used batteries are hazardous waste, meaning they should NEVER go in your curbside trash, recycling, or organics carts. Improper disposal can cause leaks, contamination, or even dangerous fires in collection trucks and disposal facilities. Instead, drop them off at the battery recycling bin at City Hall, bring them to an HHW facility, or schedule a HHW pickup by calling 800-714-1195. (Learn more here)
Check out these battery safety tip sheets to learn more about everyday charging habits to prevent lithium-ion fires and keep the community safe!
Learn even more and gain hands-on experience at the end of this month at the Fire Department's Open House! The Solana Beach Open House will be held on Saturday, October 31, from 10 AM - 2 PM. Details here.