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Fire Prevention Week 2025
October 5th - 11th is Fire Prevention Week, and this our focus is "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home™."
Over the past two years, Frederick County has seen ten incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, headphones, e-bikes, and even toys. While lithium-ion batteries are efficient and reliable, they can become hazardous if damaged or misused – posing risks of overheating, fire, or explosion. Knowing how to safely use and dispose of rechargeable batteries is more important than ever.
"As lithium-ion batteries become a part of nearly every household, it's critical that we understand how to use them safely,. One small mistake – like using the wrong charger or overcharging a device – can have serious consequences. This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is aimed at giving community members the knowledge they need to protect their families and their homes."
-Tom Coe, Fire Chief, Frederick County Fire & Rescue
Buy only listed products.
- Look for devices and batteries that are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (such as UL, ETL, or CSA).
- Be cautious of generic or unbranded products, especially online, as they may not meet essential safety standards.
Charge devices safely.
- Always use the charger and cable provided by 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, flat surface. Never under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it is fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
- Don’t throw rechargeable batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins – they can catch fire.
- Take batteries to a certified recycling location. Visit www.Call2Recycle.org to find a drop-off site near you or stop by the Division of Solid Waste & Recycling.
To learn more about rechargeable battery safety, visit www.NFPA.org.
Fire Safety Resources
Learn how to keep you and your family safe.
Highlighted Happenings
Frederick Fire & Rescue and Domino’s Fire Safety Night
On Wednesday, October 8th from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., we will be participating in NFPA & Domino’s Fire Safety Program in partnership with the Westview Domino’s (store #4650 - 4959 Westview Dr, Frederick, 21703). If you call to order a pizza during this timeframe, you may be randomly selected to have your pizza delivered by your local firefighters, who will also test your smoke alarm. If your smoke alarm is working, your pizza is free! If you need a new alarm, we will have you covered there too. Either way, it is a win for you! To order, call (301) 750-7600.
Division of Solid Waste & Recycling’s Home Hazardous Waste Drop Off
Looking to dispose of your old rechargeable batteries, smoke alarm, or carbon monoxide alarm? Some of your firefighters will be helping out at the Home Hazardous Waste Drop Off of Saturday, October 11th from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at NYMEO Field/Keys Stadium (21 Stadium Drive, Frederick 21703). Stop by to safely dispose of these items along with other hazardous household items.
Frederick County Fire & Rescue Open House
Fire & Rescue is excited to invite you to attend our first Open House on Saturday, October 18th from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at FSK Mall (5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick 21703). Join us for live demonstrations, fire and life safety education, family-friendly activities, food trucks, equipment displays, and more!
Fire Safety Storytimes & Booklist
Thanks to our friends at Frederick County Public Libraries, we will be stopping by for storytime at several locations throughout the month. If you cannot make it to a storytime, make sure to check out their Fire Safety Booklist; find a story to take home and share with the whole family! Check out the Storytime Schedule and Fire Safety Booklist here.