Charge into Fire Safety: Know the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Published on October 05, 2025

October 5 to 11 is Fire Prevention Week, and this year's theme is "Charge into Fire Safety: Know the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries." As more homes and workplaces depend on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, it's crucial to understand the fire risks they pose and how to prevent them.

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.

If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home. It’s important to know which devices are powered by them.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the "Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely" approach.

Buy, Charge & Recycle Safely

Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.

Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge and follow the instructions from the manufacturer. If you need to buy a new charger, purchase it from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface and unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged — don't overcharge!

Recycle batteries responsibly. Don't throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe recycling location like Cobbs Recycling Center.

Recycle at Cobbs