NFPA releases 2026 EMAC Desk Reference with updated fire and life safety messaging

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released the 2026 edition of its Educational Messages Advisory Committee (EMAC) Desk Reference, updating guidance for fire and life safety educators on emerging risks including lithium-ion batteries, smart smoke alarm technology, fuel gas response and carbon monoxide safety.

The reference document is used by public educators to deliver consistent, accurate fire and life safety messages to communities. NFPA said the latest edition reflects changes in technology, terminology and household safety risks.

“As our world continues to evolve and new technologies enter the market, the 2026 edition of the EMAC Desk Reference incorporates safety messaging and guidance that address today’s emerging issues,” said Kelly Ransdell, director of public education at NFPA. “These updates and revisions help ensure that it remains a cornerstone document fire and public safety educators can rely on for credible, up-to-date information.”

The 2026 EMAC Desk Reference includes expanded chapters on lithium-ion battery safety, candle safety and fuel gas alarms, alongside updated messaging across several priority areas:

• Holiday safety, including lights and decorations, Christmas tree safety, Halloween safety and fireworks.
• Greater emphasis on purchasing products listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL).
• Smart sensing technology in multi-criteria smoke alarms that detect heat, smoke and gases.
• Guidance on carrying a portable carbon monoxide (CO) alarm when traveling and recognizing possible CO poisoning when multiple people experience similar flu-like symptoms.
• New electrical safety sections covering compact fluorescent lamp lightbulbs, chicken coop safety and marine and boating safety.
• Instructions on how to respond to a fuel gas alarm or the odor of fuel gas.
• Lithium-ion battery safety guidance covering purchasing, storing, charging and air travel.

NFPA said topics in the EMAC Desk Reference are written as self-contained sections, allowing educators to find and use information on individual safety subjects quickly. The latest edition also includes a hyperlinked table of contents to improve navigation.

The Educational Messages Advisory Committee brings together professionals from fire and life safety organizations to review NFPA fire and burn safety education messages and recommend updates to NFPA public education staff. Proposed revisions and new messages are submitted by EMAC members and public audiences on an ongoing basis.

The 2026 EMAC Desk Reference is expected to be released in Spanish and French later this year.