Charge Into Safety: Lithium Batteries in Your Home

From the State Fire Marshal's office:
STATEWIDE (September 29, 2025) - The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is joining the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in celebrating Fire Prevention Week, October 5–11, 2025. This year's theme, "Charge Into Safety: Lithium Batteries in Your Home," highlights the importance of recognizing everyday fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries and taking simple steps to prevent tragedy.

Lithium-ion batteries power many devices we rely on daily – from cell phones and laptops to e-bikes, power tools, and even children's toys. While efficient, these batteries can also be hazardous if damaged, overcharged, or improperly disposed of.
Since early 2023, the Office of the State Fire Marshal has tracked lithium-ion battery-related fires. Fire investigators across Maryland have reported 102 incidents directly linked to these batteries. However, based on national research and trends, the OSFM believes the number of incidents in Maryland is much higher, as many smaller fires are never reported to fire departments or investigators. These cases underscore the importance of this year's Fire Prevention Week theme and serve as a reminder that simple safety steps—buying certified products, charging responsibly, and recycling properly—can prevent devastating outcomes.
The campaign emphasizes three key safety actions:

• BUY safely: Only purchase devices and batteries with a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA.

• CHARGE safely: Always use manufacturer-approved charging equipment, avoid overcharging, and never charge on soft surfaces like couches or beds.

• RECYCLE safely: Lithium-ion batteries should never be thrown in household trash or regular recycling bins. Instead, they should be taken to designated recycling centers like those listed at call2recycle.org.
"Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small space. By learning to buy, charge, and recycle safely, Marylanders can reduce the risk of fires in their homes," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "Fire Prevention Week is the perfect reminder to make safety a daily habit."

https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week