RDEK Fire Departments are urging residents to practise safe lithium-ion battery charging as Fire Prevention Week begins October 4.
The Regional District of East Kootenay’s fire departments are joining the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, with this year’s campaign focused on the growing number of rechargeable devices in our homes.
The 2026 theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” highlights simple steps people can take to reduce the risk of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
Phones, tablets and laptops are only part of the concern. Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly used in cordless tools, toys, e-bikes and e-scooters — putting larger and more powerful rechargeable batteries in homes, garages and workshops.
“Many devices used in our daily lives — phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters — run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode,” said Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service Acting Chief Ben Goertzen.
RDEK Fire Departments recommend residents:
• Use the cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge devices on a table, desk or other hard, flat surface — not on beds, couches or under pillows.
• Stop using a device if it becomes very hot, starts to swell, smokes or produces an unusual smell.
• Unplug devices when they are fully charged.
• Charge larger items such as e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside and away from exits.
• When travelling by plane, keep devices where they can be seen while charging.
“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service Chief Drew Sinclair. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”
The message is particularly relevant as rechargeable batteries become more common in larger recreational and transportation devices. Using the correct charger, inspecting batteries for damage and choosing a safe location for charging can help reduce the risk.
Fire Prevention Week begins Sunday, October 4, and runs through Saturday, October 10, 2026.
More information on lithium-ion battery safety and Fire Prevention Week is available from the National Fire Protection Association at fpw.org.
