Mdewakanton Public Safety (MPS) joins the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and fire departments across the country in recognizing Fire Prevention Week, from October 4-10. This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme of “Charge into Fire Safety. Safe Charging is a Superpower.” focuses on the everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safer.

Plug in. Power up. Stay safe.

Follow these safety tips from the NFPA.

Cheap charger? Don’t chance it. Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.

Soft surface? Hard pass. Charge on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or bare floor.

Fully charged? Time to unplug. Unplug your device when it is fully charged.

For tools and rides, charge outside. Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging.

Feels hot? Stop using it. Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.

On a flight? Keep it in sight. When on a plane, keep devices where you can see them while charging. Tell a flight attendant if you notice a problem with your device.

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in the country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire while firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires. Learn more at nfpa.org.