Fire Prevention Week is October 5–11, and this year’s theme from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is one that hits close to home for many families — “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” From e-bikes and scooters to tablets, phones, and wireless headphones, lithium-ion batteries power much of our daily life — but when not used correctly, they can also pose serious fire risks.
Locally, the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department reminds families that most battery-related fires can be prevented with a few simple steps. This year’s Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to check your home, talk with your kids, and make sure everyone knows how to stay safe around charging devices.
Charge Into Fire Safety: 3 Steps
1. Buy only listed products.
When buying anything powered by a lithium-ion battery — from a toy drone to a new e-bike — look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. These marks mean the product meets important safety standards. Avoid buying off-brand devices or chargers from unknown online sources…