Battery fires: charge to safety with good habits

Fire Prevention Week takes place from October 4 to 10, 2026. This event takes place annually to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries used in many everyday items, such as cell phones, tools and laptops. Here are some tips for charging them safely.

• Don’t cheap out. When it comes to replacement cords and chargers, the lowest-price option could be risky. Always use the cables that come with your device. If they need replacing, order from the manufacturer.

• Soft surface? Hard pass. Leaving devices to charge on a bed or carpet can cause overheating and start a fire. Always charge them on a hard surface like a table or countertop.

• Big charge? Take it outdoors. Charge your larger items, such as scooters, e-bikes and tools, outdoors. Their batteries store more energy and can cause fires to grow more quickly. Remember not to block exits with them.

• Feeling hot, hot, hot. Act quickly if your device starts to heat up, swell or emit smoke, strange odours or odd noises. Unplug it and stop using it right away.

• Fly right. If you're charging your device while flying, keep it in sight and alert a flight attendant if you notice any safety issues. Additionally, don’t charge vapes or e-cigarettes while you’re on a plane.

• Recharge and unplug. Once your device is charged, stop charging it. Leaving it plugged in poses a fire hazard and is generally bad for your battery.

Firefighters also remind you to test your smoke detectors monthly and practise a home evacuation plan with all household members. Fire prevention starts with you. To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit nfpa.org or your local fire department’s website and social media pages.