October is Fire Prevention Month
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has chosen “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” as the 2025 Fire Protection Week campaign. The focus of the program is the proper use, storage and disposal of lithium-ion batteries used in so many household devices.
While providing an efficient power source for devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, these batteries must be used and disposed of properly. If not, they can overheat and catch on fire.
In June of this year, it was determined that a fire at a SEPTA bus yard in Philadelphia was caused by a lithium-ion battery. The blaze destroyed about 40 decommissioned buses slated for disposal and triggered air-quality warnings for the area. Most devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are used without any problems. However, reports of fires and explosions involving these batteries have been on the rise in recent years, according to the NFPA. The goal of this year’s campaign is to reinforce the importance of better educating the public about how to use, handle, and recycle these batteries safely.
“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.” The NFPA has issued several guidelines on using lithium-ion batteries safely:
Purchase only products approved by a nationally recognized testing lab 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 established safety standards. There are many products sold online and in stores that don’t meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge your devices safely
Always use the cables that come with the device to charge it. Also, charge your device in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If you need a new charger, purchase one approved by the manufacturer. Make sure to charge your device on a hard surface. Charging it on a soft surface such as a sofa or bed could cause a fire. Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Don’t overcharge your device.
Dispose of or recycle batteries responsibly
Never toss lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire. Recycle your battery and device at a safe recycling location. You can find battery recycling locations at www.call2recycle.org.
Keeping yourself and your family safe in the event of a fire is up to you. Contact Delco Alarm Systems for additional information on the latest residential fire prevention systems. We can be reached at 610-494-9100.