Fire Prevention Month: Six Tips for Safer Charging
Published on October 08, 2026
October is National Fire Prevention Month, and National Fire Prevention Week runs October 4–10. This year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is focusing on a common part of everyday life: safely charging devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.
From phones and laptops to e-bikes, scooters and power tools, rechargeable batteries are part of daily life. Safe charging habits can help reduce the risk of battery fires. This Fire Prevention Month, Medford Fire is sharing six reminders from the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week campaign to help residents charge safely.
1. Cheap Charger? Don’t Chance It.
Use the charging cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the chance of a fire.
2. Soft Surface? Hard Pass.
Charge devices on a hard, flat surface such as a table or desk. Avoid charging devices on beds, couches or under pillows. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause a battery to overheat.
3. Fully Charged? Time to Unplug.
Unplug devices when they are fully charged. Leaving a device plugged in longer than necessary can increase heat and stress on the battery.
4. For Tools and Rides, Charge Outside.
Charge larger battery-powered items such as e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits while charging. These larger batteries store more energy, and fires can grow quickly if a battery fails.
5. Feels Hot? Stop Using It.
Stop using a device if the battery becomes unusually hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds. These can be signs of a damaged or failing battery.
6. Out of Sight? Not in Flight.
When charging a device on an airplane, keep it where you can see it. Do not charge devices in an overhead compartment. If a battery overheats or fails, keeping it in sight allows the flight crew to respond quickly.
More Ways to Practice Fire Safety
Find Fire Prevention Week resources:
- Safe charging tips and other fire-safety information
- Activities and educational materials for families, classrooms and communities
- Resources for fire departments and community educators
Stay informed!
Fire prevention starts with the choices we make every day. This Fire Prevention Month, Medford Fire encourages residents to practice safe charging habits, talk about fire safety with their families, and use the resources available to help keep our community safe.