Fire Prevention Week 2026 to focus on lithium-ion battery charging safety

Fire Prevention Week 2026 will highlight the growing fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries, with a campaign theme urging the public to adopt safer charging habits at home, at work and while travelling.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week, has announced “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” as the theme for the 2026 campaign, which will run from 4 to 10 October.

The Fire Prevention Week campaign will focus on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power many everyday devices including phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes and scooters. NFPA warned that damaged batteries or incorrect charging can cause devices to overheat, catch fire or explode.

“Properly charging devices can significantly reduce the risk of fires and associated hazards,” said Lorraine Carli, Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Making informed choices and practising simple habits are critical to these efforts.”

Although NFPA does not yet track the number of US home fires involving lithium-ion batteries, it said the increasing number of incidents reported by fire departments, news outlets and other sources underlines the potential hazards. The 2026 campaign aims to help people safely use, store and recharge lithium-ion powered devices.

Key safety messages

• Use the cord and charger that came with your device or ones approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.
• Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.
• Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.
• Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits. These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly and spread.
• When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly. 

NFPA said further information about Fire Prevention Week 2026 and campaign resources for children, caregivers and educators will be available through its Fire Prevention Week and Sparky educational platforms, sparky.org and sparkyschoolhouse.org.