MUSCATINE, Iowa - The Muscatine Fire Department is joining with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) and fire agencies across the nation in recognizing Fire Prevention Week, held October 4–10, 2026.
This year’s theme — “Charge into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” — highlights the growing need for safe charging practices as more households rely on rechargeable devices, power banks, e-bikes, scooters, and lithium-ion batteries.
Fire Chief Mike Hartman emphasized that modern charging habits can create hidden risks if not managed properly.
“Safe charging is simple, but it’s also powerful. A few small steps can prevent fires, save property, and protect lives,” Hartman said.
There are simple steps people can take to recharge safely and make smart choices every time they plug in.
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Many devices used in our daily lives - phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters - run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.
“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Hartman. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”
Key safety messages for Muscatine residents
- Use certified chargers — Only use chargers and cords that are listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
- Avoid overnight charging — Unattended charging increases the risk of overheating. Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.
- Keep devices on hard surfaces — Never charge electronics on beds, couches, or under pillows. Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.
- Stop using damaged batteries — Swelling, odor, or unusual heat are signs of danger. Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.
- Give batteries room to breathe — Avoid stacking items on or around charging devices.
- Install working smoke alarms — Early detection remains the strongest defense against fire.
- Charge larger items outside — Like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits. These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly and spread.
- Keep it where you can see it — When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly.
Local commitment to safety
Throughout Fire Prevention Week, Muscatine firefighters will share daily safety tips, host school demonstrations, and provide charging-safety education across city platforms. Community members can also visit the Muscatine Fire Department’s website and social channels for additional resources.
“Fire safety evolves as technology evolves,” said Assistant Chief Jeff Stone. “This year’s theme reminds us that everyone has the power to prevent fires — and it starts with how we charge the devices we use every day.”
Fire Prevention Week is the longest-running public health observance in the United States, established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Each year, fire departments nationwide use this week to educate communities on preventing home fires and staying safe.
