Oct 7, 2025
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Fire Prevention Week 2025: Charge Into Fire Safety™

Written by:
Sam Doner
Fire Prevention Week 2025: Charge Into Fire Safety™

At Metropolitan Pump Co. Limited, we’re proud to support Fire Prevention Week™, running October 5–11, 2025. This year’s theme from the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA) is:

Charge Into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.

Lithium-ion batteries power so much of our everyday lives—from phones and laptops to lawn tools and electric vehicles. But did you know they can pose a fire risk if not used, charged, or stored safely?

Fire safety starts with awareness, and we’re joining NFPA to help spread the message on how you can keep your home and family safe.

1. Buy Only Listed Products

When shopping for battery-powered devices or chargers, it’s important to look for certification marks such as UL Listed, CSA, or ETL. These labels mean the products have been tested and meet recognized safety standards.

Avoid counterfeit or off-brand batteries and chargers that may not meet quality requirements — they can overheat, swell, or fail without warning. While they might seem like a bargain, uncertified batteries often lack built-in protection circuits that help prevent fires.

Reproduced from NFPA website fpw.org, © NFPA 2025.
💡 Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and stick with replacement batteries that match the make and model of your device.

2. Charge Devices Safely

Lithium-ion batteries need breathing room. When charging phones, laptops, or tablets, use the original charging cable or one that’s approved by the manufacturer. Inexpensive, untested cords may not deliver power evenly — increasing the risk of overheating or even fire.

Make sure to charge devices on a hard, nonflammable surface such as a table or countertop, and avoid soft surfaces like beds, couches, or under pillows, where heat can get trapped.

If you notice your charger getting unusually hot, stop using it and check for damage. Remember — if a battery looks swollen, smells odd, or feels hot even when unplugged, it should be replaced and recycled safely.

Reproduced from NFPA website fpw.org, © NFPA 2025.

3. Unplug When Fully Charged

Once your device hits 100%, it’s time to unplug. Overcharging can degrade battery life and increase the chances of heat buildup.

Consider charging your electronics during the day rather than overnight. It’s safer, and you’ll also save a bit on energy costs. If you use multiple chargers at once, plug them into outlets equipped with surge protection — never overload power strips.

Reproduced from NFPA website fpw.org, © NFPA 2025.
💡 Did you know? According to NFPA, many home electrical fires start with everyday charging habits. Simply unplugging devices when they’re ready can make a big difference in home safety.

4. Charge Power and Lawn Tools Outdoors

Power tools, e-bikes, scooters, and lawn equipment use larger lithium-ion batteries, which can generate significant heat while charging. Always charge these items outside, on a flat, dry, and shaded surface.

Avoid garages, sheds, or storage rooms filled with flammable materials. Never leave charging batteries unattended, and disconnect them once the charge is complete.

For added safety, inspect cords and battery casings regularly for cracks, bulges, or corrosion. If something doesn’t look right — it’s safer to replace it than risk it.

Reproduced from NFPA website fpw.org, © NFPA 2025

5. Recycle Responsibly

Batteries don’t belong in the trash or recycling bin. Damaged or improperly discarded lithium-ion batteries can spark fires in garbage trucks and recycling centers.

Instead, find a local drop-off site through call2recycle.org or your community’s hazardous waste program. Many hardware stores and municipal centers also accept small rechargeable batteries for safe recycling.

Store used batteries in a cool, dry place while you collect them for drop-off. To prevent accidental contact, tape over battery terminals with electrical or duct tape.

Reproduced from NFPA website fpw.org, © NFPA 2025.

Fire prevention isn’t just for firefighters — it starts with each of us, in our homes and workplaces. Simple habits like buying quality products, charging safely, and recycling properly can make a huge difference.

At Metropolitan Pump Co. Limited, our mission is to keep people safe — whether that’s through our fire suppression systems, pump solutions, or by sharing important safety knowledge like this.

This Fire Prevention Week, take a few minutes to check your chargers, organize your batteries, and “Charge Into Fire Safety™.” Together, we can make every home, workplace, and community safer.

🔗 Learn More

Visit fpw.org to explore NFPA’s full toolkit, activity sheets, and resources for families, schools, and businesses.

“Fire Prevention Week™” and “Sparky the Fire Dog®” are trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Some images and materials reproduced courtesy of NFPA. © NFPA 2025. Used under NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week Digital Toolkit terms.