Westminster, MD, Friday, October 3, 2025 – Yesterday, during Open Session, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners proclaimed October 5th – 11th as Fire Prevention Week. The Carroll County Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFEMS) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW)  to promote this year’s FPW campaign Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.  FPW highlights how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day, including smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.

If not used correctly or damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, it’s important to know which devices in your home are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere, said Michael Robinson, Chief of DFEMS. This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”

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.

DFEMS 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™.”

There are several FPW events taking place throughout the county. The best way to access event information is to visit DFEMS station webpage and locate your community fire station, and click its website for more information.  A few notable events include the commemoration of Hampstead Fire Station’s 125th Anniversary with a parade on Main Street, Saturday, October 4th, beginning at 11:00 am, followed by an “Open House” event at Hampstead Fire Station. Also, in the coming weeks, on-duty DFEMS and volunteer personnel will be visiting county elementary schools with a fire prevention program.

To learn more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.