Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue wants to bring awareness of risks with lithium-ion batteries. They’re safe if used correctly. Buy only lithium batteries that are tested in safety labs and meet safety standards. Charged them with approved cords on hard surfaces, and unplug them when fully charged. Don’t charge the batteries on a bed or couch, as it could start a fire. Recycle those batteries at approved locations and not in a household trash can as it could start a fire.
Press Release from City of Steamboat Springs; October 2025
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Focus Of Fire Prevention Week
Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home Theme For Oct. 6-10
Steamboat Springs, Colorado-September 30, 2025-Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR), in partnership with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), will share daily safety tips, educational outreach, and public messages throughout the week to raise awareness about lithium-ion battery risks and safe practices during Fire Prevention Week, October 6-10, 2025.
“Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere — in our homes, vehicles, and workplaces. They’re safe when used correctly, but the risks are real if they’re not,” said Steamboat Springs Fire Chief Chuck Cerasoli. “This Fire Prevention Week is a reminder to make small changes that can prevent big emergencies.”
Most of the electronics used in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery. While convenient, if damaged or misused, they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode.
This year’s campaign urges residents to Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely:
- Buy only products tested by recognized safety labs. Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
- Charge with manufacturer-approved cords, on hard surfaces, and unplug once fully charged. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire. Don’t overcharge your device and unplug or remove the battery when fully charged.
- Recycle at approved locations — never in household trash as they can catch fire.
Since 1922, NFPA has sponsored Fire Prevention Week, the nation’s longest-running public health observance, held each year in remembrance of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.