It’s Fire Prevention Week: Safe charging is a superpower. Charge into fire safety.
October 2, 2026 – Defence Stories
Estimated read time – 1:40
Every day, Defence Team members and their families rely on devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. Smartphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, and other rechargeable devices have become essential parts of our daily lives. While these batteries are efficient and convenient, they must be used responsibly to prevent fires and injuries.
This Fire Prevention Week (October 4-10), we encourage everyone to remember: Safe charging is a superpower!
Charge into fire safety
Lithium-ion batteries store significant amounts of energy in a compact space. Although generally safe, damaged batteries, improper charging practices, manufacturing defects, or exposure to extreme temperatures can cause a battery to fail. In rare cases, this may lead to thermal runaway, resulting in intense fire, toxic smoke, or explosion.
Description
CHARGE INTO FIRE SAFETY
Safe Charging Is a SUPERPOWER
NFPA
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
FPW.ORG
Warning signs
Stop using a battery or device immediately if you notice:
- Swelling or bulging
- Excessive heat
- Strange odours
- Leaking fluids
- Discolouration or deformation
- Hissing, popping, or crackling sounds
If safe to do so, move the device away from combustible materials and contact the manufacturer.
Charge Safely
Protect yourself and your family by following these simple precautions:
- Use only manufacturer-approved chargers.
- Charge batteries on hard, non-combustible surfaces.
- Plug chargers directly into wall outlets whenever possible.
- Disconnect batteries once fully charged.
- Keep charging devices away from exits and escape routes.
- Never charge batteries under pillows, blankets, or upholstered furniture.
- Avoid leaving batteries charging unattended overnight.
If a battery fire occurs
If a lithium-ion battery catches fire:
- Evacuate the area immediately.
- Close doors behind you if possible.
- Call 911 or local emergency services.
- Do not attempt to fight a large battery fire.
- Follow your emergency evacuation plan.
Make fire safety a family priority
Fire Prevention Week is an excellent opportunity to review your family fire plan. Ensure everyone knows two ways out of every room, the outdoor meeting place, how to contact emergency services, and what to do when smoke alarms sound. Working smoke alarms and practiced escape plans save lives.
Whether at home, at work, or on deployment, fire safety is everyone's responsibility. By understanding lithium-ion battery hazards and adopting safe charging habits, we can reduce fire risks and protect our families, homes, and workplaces.
Remember: Safe charging is a Superpower! Charge into fire safety. Use it wisely.
A message from the Office of the Canadian Forces Fire Marshal