Incline Village, NV — The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) 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.” It 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 — 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 if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful,” said Fire Marshal James. “If you hear a pop, see smoke, or notice fire — get out immediately and call 911. The gases are toxic, and a household extinguisher won’t stop it. Your safety comes first.”
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 cables 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 https://www.call2recycle.org/ to find a recycling spot near you.
NLTFPD 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™.”
Fire Prevention Week in Our Community
NLTFPD welcomed local elementary school students for fun and educational station tours. Students had the opportunity to step into our smoke trailer to learn how to safely exit a home during a fire and practice real-life fire safety tips alongside our crews. These interactive experiences reinforced lessons about home fire safety, family escape plans, and the importance of working smoke alarms.
“These hands-on activities allow our firefighters to connect directly with students,” said Fire Chief Ryan Sommers. “It’s about empowering kids — and by extension, their families — to take proactive steps toward safety.”
####