Fire Prevention Week Focuses on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Fire Prevention Week is underway across the country, running from October 5th through the 11th, and this year’s theme from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild about the growing concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries and how residents can protect themselves from the potential risks these batteries pose.

Before diving into the week’s theme, Hauschild reminded listeners that New York State remains under a temporary burn ban through October 15th, due to unusually dry fall conditions that have increased the risk of wildfires. Under the ban, most open burning — including brush and yard waste — is prohibited, though small, contained campfires and cooking fires are still allowed.

The Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Hauschild explained that lithium-ion batteries are everywhere — from phones, laptops, and tablets to e-bikes, power tools, and even toys — and while they’re efficient and convenient, they can pose serious fire hazards if damaged, improperly charged, or paired with uncertified equipment.

“These batteries store a large amount of energy,” Hauschild said. “If they’re not used properly, it does pose a threat to people.”

He stressed the importance of buying batteries and chargers that are UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certified and avoiding cheap replacements sold online. “That’s where we see the problems — off-brand batteries that overheat or fail.”

Charging and Disposal Safety Tips

Hauschild offered several key precautions:

Use the correct charger. Stick to the one that came with the device or a manufacturer-approved replacement.

Avoid overcharging. “People think they have to charge overnight, but these are rapid chargers,” he noted.

Keep devices uncovered while charging. Charging phones or laptops under pillows or on soft surfaces traps heat — a leading cause of battery fires.

Charge e-bikes and scooters outside whenever possible, and never near an exit door.

Dispose of damaged or old batteries properly. “Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash,” he warned. “Search for recycling locations — many manufacturers and retailers will take them back.”

Hauschild added that toxic smoke from these batteries can be extremely dangerous, especially if a fire starts indoors. “If you see smoke coming from a battery, unplug it and move away. If it ignites, call 911 immediately.”

Local Fire Trends

While New York City has seen a surge in fires linked to e-bikes and lithium batteries, Sullivan County has had a few close calls. “We’ve had incidents with laptops and e-bikes — some small, some that caused serious damage,” Hauschild said. “It’s becoming more common as more of these devices are out there.”

Everyday Fire Safety

Beyond lithium batteries, Hauschild emphasized that fire prevention is an everyday responsibility, not just one week a year.

“Practice fire safety in your home,” he said. “Have exit drills, store flammable liquids safely, and talk to your local fire department — they’re always happy to help or even welcome new volunteers.”

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