CAL FIRE urges Californians to charge devices with fire safety in mind during Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, 2026.
The focus this year highlights safe charging habits to reduce fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries found in phones, tablets, laptops, e-bikes, and scooters.
Chief Daniel Berlant, California State Fire Marshal, says charging devices correctly can prevent home fires and protect families and communities.
Use the charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Charging on hard, flat surfaces helps prevent overheating. Avoid beds, couches, or pillows where heat can build up.
Stop using any device that feels very hot, swells, smokes, or emits strange smells. These signs indicate battery damage or failure.
Unplug devices once fully charged. Leaving them plugged in increases battery stress and heat. Larger batteries, like those in e-bikes or power tools, should charge outdoors and away from exits to reduce fire risks.
On airplanes, keep devices in sight while charging. Avoid charging in overhead compartments and never charge e-cigarettes or vapes on the plane. Flight crews can respond faster if overheating occurs.
CAL FIRE’s Office of the State Fire Marshal leads efforts to improve battery safety statewide. Their Battery Energy Storage Systems Workgroup studies hazards, recommends best practices, and enhances firefighter training to address risks from evolving battery technology.
Make safe charging a daily habit to help prevent fires in your home and community.
Visit fpw.org for more information on lithium-ion battery safety.
