Fire Prevention Week (October 4-10) Reinforces Safe Charging Habits for Everyday Devices
NEW CITY, NY, – Rechargeable batteries powering everyday devices can pose serious fire risks when damaged or improperly charged. This Fire Prevention Week™, October 4-10, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) reminds residents to make safe charging part of their daily routine. This year’s campaign, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging is a Superpower.”
A 2026 study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) estimates that consumer lithium-ion battery fires are increasing by about 10% per year. Lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly, release toxic & flammable gases, and reignite after appearing extinguished minutes, hours, or even days later.
“As a former first responder, I urge families to be extremely cautious with rechargeable items that we all use daily including phones, tablets, laptops, toys, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, and more,” said County Executive Ed Day. Many of these devices use lithium-ion batteries that if damaged or charged incorrectly could result in that small battery starting a fast-moving fire.”
“Safe charging is easy to make part of your daily routine,” said Christopher Kear, Fire Coordinator and Director of the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services. “Use the right charger, charge equipment on a hard, flat surface, and watch for signs of a damaged battery. These simple steps can help prevent fires and keep your family safe.”
The RCDOH encourages residents to follow these safe charging tips from the NFPA:
Use the right charger: Use the cord that came with your device or one approved by the maker of the device. Follow their instructions.
Charge on a hard, flat surface: Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard surface where heat can escape. Keep devices away from items that can catch fire. Do not charge devices on beds, couches, blankets, or under pillows.
Watch for warning signs: Stop using a device if the battery gets very hot, swells, leaks, smells unusual, or makes a popping or hissing sound. These signs may mean the battery is damaged and could start a fire.
Unplug when fully charged: Unplug devices when they are fully charged. Do not leave them plugged in for longer than needed.
Keep exits clear: Charge e-bikes, scooters, and other large products, away from doors and exits. Keeping exits clear gives everyone a safe way out during a fire. These larger devices should not be charged inside a house or apartment.
Choose safety-tested products: When buying rechargeable products, look for a mark from a nationally recognized testing laboratory, like Underwriter Laboratories. This shows the product has been tested to meet safety standards.
Recycle batteries responsibly: Never throw items with lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins. Damaged or improperly discarded batteries can cause fires. Take batteries and devices to an approved recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org/ to find a location near you.
The Rockland County Department of Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program (HNP) plans to attend local events at fire departments and town centers during Fire Prevention Week. Staff will help seniors, families, and school-aged children learn about fire safety. They will share information about this year’s theme and provide tips for safe charging and fire prevention.
HNP also offers free home visits to eligible residents, including low-income residents, seniors, and families at higher risk. During these visits, staff look for health and safety concerns and share information about fire, carbon monoxide, and cooking safety. Residents may also receive smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, while supplies last. For more information, call 845-364-2545 or 845-364-3292.
“Fire safety starts with teaching children how to prevent fires and what to do in an emergency. When we teach these skills early, children can build good habits that last a lifetime and help keep their families safe”, said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week, visit fpw.org. For fire safety fun for kids, visit www.sparky.org. Learn more about Lithium Ion Battery Safety here.