The Douglas Fire Department (DFD) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association(NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week (FPW) for more than 100 years — to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It highlights the importance of buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode,” says Douglas Fire Chief Casey Wright. “To reduce these risks, take a look around your home to identify which devices are powered by them and make sure you charge them properly and avoid overcharging.”
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign aims to educate people about the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the ‘Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely’ approach.
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 cables 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.
DFD is hosting a series of events the entire month of October in support of this year’s FPW campaign, including utilizing the Fire Prevention Education Safety House in conjunction with fire education programs for all ages through fire prevention presentations in schools, daycare centers, and other places of business. Douglas Utility customers can register at City Hall (302 S. Madison Avenue) for a drawing to be held on October 25, 2025, for free smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Through these educational, family-oriented activities, residents can learn about the importance of fire prevention and fire safety.