This year’s theme is “Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” which focuses on preventing fires involving rechargeable lithium-ion batteries found in many everyday devices.
Lithium-ion batteries power smartphones, tablets, laptops, cordless tools, e-bikes, scooters, and other commonly used equipment. Fire safety experts say these batteries can overheat, ignite, or explode if they are damaged, charged improperly, or paired with incompatible chargers.
The National Fire Protection Association, which sponsors Fire Prevention Week, recommends using only manufacturer-approved charging equipment, placing devices on hard and flat surfaces while charging, and unplugging devices once charging is complete. Residents are also advised to stop using any device that becomes unusually hot, swells, leaks, smokes, or emits an unusual odor.
Officials say larger battery-powered devices such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools should be charged outdoors when possible and never in locations that block exits. These precautions can help reduce the risk of fires and provide a safer environment for families and businesses.
In addition to safe charging practices, Fire Prevention Week serves as an annual reminder for homeowners to test smoke alarms, replace batteries when needed, review escape plans, and ensure every member of the household knows what to do in the event of a fire.
Interviews with local fire officials, including Ted Martin of the Western Taney County Fire Protection District as well as members of the Harrison Fire Department, can be found on the “Ozarks Now” and “Around the Table” Facebook Pages.
