FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2026

The Lake Havasu City Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) for more than 100 years, to promote this year’s FPW campaign, Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower. Running October 4 through October 10, 2026, the campaign focuses on simple steps everyone can take to safely charge lithium-ion battery-powered devices and help prevent home fires.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the rechargeable devices used daily, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, and toys. While these batteries make everyday life more convenient, they can pose a fire risk when damaged, misused, or improperly charged.

“Safe charging really can be a superpower when it comes to preventing fires,” said Gina Gutierrez, Public Education Specialist. “Small habits, like using the correct charger, charging devices on a hard, flat surface, and unplugging them when they are fully charged, can make a big difference in keeping your home and family safe.”

The Lake Havasu City Fire Department encourages residents to always use the charging cord that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. Devices should be charged on a hard, flat surface where heat can escape, rather than on beds, couches, pillows, or other soft surfaces. In addition, residents should pay attention to warning signs while devices are charging. If a battery or device becomes unusually hot, begins to swell, changes shape, smells strange, or shows other signs of damage, it should be disconnected immediately. Damaged batteries and devices can overheat and may result in a fire or explosion.

Larger lithium-ion battery-powered devices, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, require extra care. When possible, these devices should be charged outdoors and away from exits so that they do not block an escape route in the event of a fire. Once a device is fully charged, it should be unplugged rather than left continuously connected to a charger.

Residents are encouraged to incorporate safe charging into their everyday routines and ensure that everyone in the household understands how to properly charge and care for rechargeable devices. Lake Havasu City first responders remain committed to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education, and community outreach. This Fire Prevention Week, the Fire Department reminds residents that every time you plug in a device, you have the power to make a safer choice.

For more information, please contact:
Community Engagement Officer, Jerri Bracamonte – (928) 854-0801