The Illinois State Fire Marshal has unveiled Lithium-Ion Battery Safety as the focus for this year’s Fire Prevention Week. With lithium-ion batteries powering common items such as phones, laptops, and electric scooters, officials are urging the public to follow simple precautions. Recommended tips include only using certified batteries with your devices, unplugging chargers once batteries are full, and seeking professional help for repairs rather than attempting fixes at home. Authorities stress that improper battery use or damage can increase the risk of fires. The campaign aims to reduce preventable incidents and keep families safe throughout the year.
“This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign emphasizes the critical importance of safely using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires in our homes,” said Acting Illinois State Fire Marshal Allen Reyne. “By following the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, we can reduce risks and protect our communities. We look forward to working alongside our partners to share this vital safety message—not only during Fire Prevention Week, but throughout the year—to help build a safer, more fire-resilient Illinois.”
Charging should stop once the battery is full, and any sign of damage—like swelling, odd odors, excessive heat, or strange noises—means the device should be turned off and checked by a professional. With Fire Prevention Week approaching, the NFPA encourages everyone to review these guidelines to help prevent fires linked to battery misuse. More details are available at the NFPA website.
