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Grand Rapids Fire Department focuses on lithium-ion battery safety during Fire Prevention Week

City of Grand Rapids

They’re joining fire departments across the nation to help residents develop safe charging habits.

Fire prevention week kicks off Sunday, October 4th.

The 2026 theme is “Charge into Fire safety: safe Charging is a superpower.”
A news release says this will empower residents to develop safer charging habits for everyday electronic devices that rely on rechargeable batteries.

Lithium‑ion batteries power items people use daily, including cell phones, laptops, e‑bikes, power tools and household devices. Improper charging practices can lead to overheating, fires or explosions.
 
GRFD encourages residents to follow some tips on charging safety, including, using original or manufacturer-approved chargers to prevent damage and fire risk and charge devices on hard, flat surfaces… never on beds, sofas or other soft materials.

Grand Rapids Fire Marshal Bill Smith, says, “This year’s focus on battery charging safety reflects emerging fire risks in our community. GRFD is committed to education, prevention and partnership with our residents to keep Grand Rapids safe.”

Jennifer is an award winning broadcast news journalist with more than two decades of professional television news experience including the nation's fifth largest news market. She's worked as both news reporter and news anchor for television and radio in markets from Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo all the way to San Francisco, California.
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