FIRE PREVENTION WEEK 2025 - October 5–11, 2025

From Phones to Power Tools: Arcadia Fire Department Highlights Lithium-Ion Battery Safety During Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week returns October 5–11, 2025, this year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The Arcadia Fire Department is joining fire departments nationwide to raise awareness about the importance of buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely.

Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. Most of the electronics we use daily such as smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys are all powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery. But if they are not handled properly, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

The Arcadia Fire Department provides the following key safety tips and guidelines for handling lithium-ion batteries:

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.

The Arcadia Fire Department encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy,Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety.”

During the month of October, the Arcadia Fire Department will be spreading the word and educating the community on safe battery practices. For further information, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at (626) 574-5104,or checkout the City’s website, www.ArcadiaCA.gov, and X @ProtectArcadia for updates.