Every October the Rochester Fire Department teams up with the National Fire Protection Association^® (NFPA^®) to promote fire prevention safety, and this year’s campaign is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, 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. This year’s campaign is intended to help 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 only listed products.

• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
• Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.

Charge devices safely.

• Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

Recycle batteries responsibly.

• Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
• Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.

During the month of October, Maria Busuito, Public Educator for the Rochester Fire Department, has been working to deliver this important messaging to elementary school children. The Rochester Fire Department is also working with Waste Management to educate the community on the risks and concerns with LI Battery disposal. As of July 2025, it is now illegal to dispose of LI batteries in the trash or recycle bins.

“While we are working directly with children in our elementary schools, it is my hope that parents and caregivers look over the activity book, other resources, and discuss what children learned about Lithium-ion batteries,” said Busuito. “Our goal is to educate families how to purchase wisely, use and charge correctly, and always dispose safely.  We want the community to know that we are available to answer any questions they may have regarding this important topic.”

Also, be on the lookout and please share the Fire Department’s video PSA on Lithium-Ion battery safety on social media. For more information, contact Maria Busuito at (603) 330-7160. For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit www.fpw.org.