Texas A&M Forest Service promotes safe charging during Fire Prevention Week 

As communities across Texas observe Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 4-10, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to practice safe lithium-ion battery charging habits to prevent wildfires that threaten lives, property and natural resources.  

This year’s National Fire Protection Association Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” highlights the importance of safely using, charging and storing lithium-ion batteries.  

To support local wildfire prevention efforts during Fire Prevention Week, Texas A&M Forest Service offered 50 wildfire prevention outreach boxes to eligible volunteer fire departments. The boxes included educational materials and resources to help departments engage residents and promote wildfire prevention through community events, school visits and other outreach activities.  

 
“Volunteer fire departments play a vital role in wildfire prevention and public education across Texas,” said Taylor Ostic, Texas A&M Forest Service fire information and education program specialist. “These outreach boxes will provide departments with tools and materials to engage their communities and share practical steps Texans can take to prevent wildfires.” 

Lithium-ion batteries power many devices Texans use every day, including cellphones, tablets, laptops, flashlights, headlamps, power tools, e-bikes, drones, ATVs, UTVs and RVs.  Damaged batteries or unsafe charging practices can trigger thermal runaway, an uncontrolled chain reaction that can cause a battery to overheat, ignite or explode. 

Nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human-caused, and many preventable fires begin with everyday activities. As Texans spend more time outdoors during the fall recreation season, practicing battery safety can help reduce the risk of wildfires. 

“As Texans spend time outdoors this fall, whether hunting, camping or enjoying our parks and natural areas, it’s important to remember that wildfire risk remains even as temperatures cool and rainfall increases in some areas,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “Everyday devices and activities can spark a fire if not used properly, and safe charging habits and practices can help protect lives, property and the natural resources we all enjoy.” 

To help reduce the risk of fires involving lithium-ion batteries and devices: 

• Use the correct charger. Use only the cord and charger that came with the device or chargers approved by the manufacturer. Avoid using off-brand or damaged chargers that may not meet safety standards. 

• Choose a safe power source. When possible, plug chargers directly into a wall outlet instead of using extension cords or multi-plug adapters. 

• Charge in a safe location. Charge batteries on a hard, flat surface such as a table, workbench or bare floor. Do not charge on grass, couches, beds or beneath soft materials such as blankets that may trap heat or block airflow. 

• Avoid contact with water. Never charge batteries near water. Unplug devices if your area is at risk of flooding and never charge batteries that may have been exposed to water. 

• Be cautious of extreme temperatures. Do not charge in temperatures below 32 degrees or above 105 degrees. Store batteries and devices at room temperature whenever possible. Stop using a battery or device if it becomes unusually hot, swells, emits smoke, leaks or develops an unusual odor. 

• Dispose of batteries correctly. Contact your local fire department or battery manufacturer for guidance on proper disposal of damaged batteries or devices. 

Safe charging habits can help prevent fires and protect Texas communities. This Fire Prevention Week, Texans are encouraged to safely use, charge and store lithium-ion batteries and other devices that can pose a fire risk. 

To learn more about wildfire prevention, visit 
tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/homeowners-prevention-and-preparedness/prevent-wildfires/ 

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit 
www.firepreventionweek.org/ 

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