Fire Prevention Week: Safe Charging Habits That Can Help Prevent a House Fire
A phone charging beside the bed. A tablet plugged in on the couch. A power-tool battery charging in the garage. These routines are so familiar that we may barely notice them—but they deserve a closer look.
Fire Prevention Week is October 4–10, 2026, and this year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” It is a timely reminder for families in Morris County and throughout New Jersey to check how—and where—they charge everyday devices.
1. Just because a charger fits does not mean it is the right one
Use the charger and cord supplied with your device, or a replacement approved by the manufacturer. A plug that fits is not enough to confirm compatibility, especially for e-bikes, scooters, and power-tool batteries.
Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions and choose products certified by a recognized testing laboratory.
2. Keep charging devices off beds and couches
Soft surfaces can trap heat. Charge on a hard, flat surface with room for air to circulate, away from blankets, pillows, curtains, and other materials that can burn.
For families, make this a household rule: phones and tablets charge on a clear surface, never tucked into bedding. Check where children leave devices after games or homework.
3. Think about your way out—not just the nearest outlet
An e-bike or scooter charging near the front door may seem convenient. But if its battery catches fire, it could block the exit your family needs.
Keep charging equipment out of hallways, doorways, stairways, and other escape routes. Take a look at your charging setup from this perspective: If a fire started here, could everyone still get outside?
4. Pay attention while devices charge
Charge when you are awake and able to monitor the device, and disconnect it once fully charged. Avoid leaving batteries charging unattended while you are away.
Also consider temperature. A garage can get very hot in summer and cold in winter. Follow the manufacturer’s permitted charging temperatures rather than assuming any indoor location is suitable.
5. Know when to stop using a battery
Warning signs include swelling, unusual heat, leaking, an odd smell, or unusual noises. Stop using or charging a device that shows these signs.
If a battery is smoking or burning, get everyone outside and call 911. Do not try to carry it through the house or fight the fire yourself.
An old battery also needs proper disposal. Lithium-ion batteries do not belong in household trash or curbside recycling. Contact your municipality or an approved battery collection program for instructions; tell them if the battery is damaged.
6. Check the age of your smoke alarms—not just the batteries
Replace household smoke alarms 10 years from the manufacture date, or sooner if the manufacturer requires it or the alarm fails. Check the date printed on the back. This applies to hardwired smoke alarms, too.
Changing a battery does not restart an alarm’s lifespan.
Test every month using the test button.
Replace removable batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions; conventional 9-volt batteries generally need replacement at least annually.
For sealed 10-year battery models, replace the entire alarm when required. Do not attempt to replace the sealed battery.
Check placement: alarms belong inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, and on every level, including the basement.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance, and address warning chirps promptly.
Make one small safety check this week
Walk through your home and check chargers, charging locations, and smoke-alarm dates. Include the devices you may overlook, such as portable power banks, cordless tools, and children’s rechargeable electronics.
At BIS Improved Insurance Agency, we encourage our neighbors throughout Morris County and New Jersey to make fire prevention part of their everyday routines. If you have questions about your homeowners insurance or would like to review your coverage, our team is here to help.
Contact us here today!
