From Sunday, October 5, to Saturday, October 11, 2025, the Summit Fire Department is joining firefighters across the nation in celebrating Fire Prevention Week. The 2025 theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” and the campaign will work to educate the public on how to use these batteries safely.
“Almost anything that’s rechargeable, such as phones, tablets, cordless vacuums, and power tools is powered by lithium-ion batteries,” explains Fire Chief Eric Evers. “When these batteries become damaged or overcharged, they can overheat and start a fire or even explode. It is our hope that this campaign will be a helpful reminder for residents to safely use, charge, and dispose of lithium-ion batteries and avoid starting a fire at home.”
Evers continues: “With the recent rise in popularity in e-bikes and e-scooters, it’s important to note that these devices are also powered by lithium-ion batteries. When replacing your e-bike battery or charger, it is crucial that you only use manufacturer-approved replacements. When incompatible batteries and chargers are used, they can very quickly overheat and start a fire.”
The Summit Fire Department is sharing the following safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association for safe usage of lithium-ion batteries.
- Buy only listed products
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
- Charge devices safely
- Always use the cords that came with the product to charge and follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Charge your device on a hard surface. 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; they could start a fire. Instead, recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit www.call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
- For Summit residents: Batteries (excluding Alkaline batteries) are accepted at Union County Household Hazardous Waste events, held monthly throughout the county. Go to www.ucnj.org/recycling/household-special-waste to view the event schedule.
Visit www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week to view additional tips, resources, and information related to lithium-ion batteries or Fire Prevention Week. For more information on the Summit Fire Department, please visit www.cityofsummit.org/fire.