10/07/2026
“Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower™”
Lithium-ion batteries in our phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and other devices are part of everyday life. But the way we charge them matters.
Take a few minutes to learn how to charge safely and help prevent lithium-ion battery fires:
🔌 Use the right charger. Only use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
📱 Charge on hard surfaces. Charge devices on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or bare floor. Do not charge devices on beds, couches, or pillows where heat can become trapped.
🚨 Know the warning signs. Stop using a device immediately if the battery smells strange, feels unusually warm, makes popping noises, changes shape or color, or produces smoke. If it’s safe, move it away from anything that could catch fire.
🔋 Unplug your device when it’s fully charged. Don't leave devices charging longer than necessary.
🛴 Be extra careful when charging larger batteries. When possible, charge larger devices such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside. Never block an exit while charging.
✈️ Traveling by plane? Keep portable charging devices on the tray table. Never charge them in an overhead compartment. And never charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, the flight crew needs to be able to respond quickly.
Taking small steps can make a big difference when it comes to battery safety.
👉 Learn more at fpw.org
