It’s Fire Prevention Week, and it’s time to plug in, power up, and stay safe! This year’s theme is “Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is A Superpower!”, which focuses on the everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safer. Please follow the tips below from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): 

• Cheap charger? Don't chance it. Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.

• Soft surface? Hard pass. Charge on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or bare floor.

• Fully charged? Time to unplug. Unplug your device when it is fully charged.

• For tools and rides, charge outside. Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging.

• Feels hot? Stop using it. Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.

• On a flight? Keep it in sight. When on a plane, keep devices where you can see them while charging. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on the plane. Tell a flight attendant if you notice a problem with your device.

Learn more about Fire Prevention Week from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) at nfpa.org.