BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is kicking off Fire Prevention Week on October 5 with a crucial warning about the growing risk of fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from cell phones to e-bikes.
This year’s theme for the weeklong campaign, which runs through October 11, is “Charge Into Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” and it emphasizes three simple steps to prevent what officials say is an underreported and increasingly serious fire hazard.
Since early 2023, fire investigators across Maryland have directly linked 102 incidents to lithium-ion batteries. However, Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray cautioned that the actual number of incidents is likely “much higher,” as many smaller fires go unreported to fire departments.
“Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small space,” Mowbray said. “By learning to buy, charge, and recycle safely, Marylanders can reduce the risk of fires in their homes.”
The campaign’s core message focuses on three key actions for consumers:
- BUY Safely: Only purchase devices and batteries that carry a recognized safety certification mark, such as UL, ETL, or CSA.
- CHARGE Safely: Always use the manufacturer-approved charging equipment, unplug devices once they are fully charged, and never charge batteries on soft surfaces like beds or couches, which can trap heat and lead to overheating.
- RECYCLE Safely: Lithium-ion batteries must be taken to designated recycling centers to prevent them from causing fires in trash trucks or waste facilities. Consumers can find drop-off locations at call2recycle.org.
Throughout the week, the OSFM’s staff, Deputy State Fire Marshals, and K9 teams will be distributing educational materials at schools, firehouse open houses, and community events across Maryland to reinforce the safety message.
The campaign is held in partnership with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The video NFPA Fire Prevention Week 2025: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” is relevant because it promotes the exact theme and safety messaging highlighted by the Maryland State Fire Marshal for Fire Prevention Week 2025.
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