Fire Safety Week | Charge into Fire Safety
“Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” is the theme for October 4-10
PITT COUNTY, N.C. – Pitt County Emergency Management is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to support Fire Prevention Week Sunday, October 4 through Saturday, October 10, 2026. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps necessary recharge safely.
“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,” says Jay Morris, Emergency Management Deputy Director | Fire Marshal.
“The way residents charge lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in preventing home fires,” says Randy Gentry, Director, Emergency Management.
The Pitt County Fire Marshal’s Office recommends using simple habits each time a device is plugged in.
- Use the cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
- Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge devices on beds, couches or under pillows. 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 the 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.
- 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.
- Charge larger items 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.
- When on a plane, keep the device within eyesight 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.
The Public Information Office is promoting educational posts and role spotlights of the Fire Marshal and Fire Inspector positions on the Pitt County Facebook page and website to reinforce this public messaging.
The Fire Marshal’s Office is committed to promoting fire safety and prevention year-round through community educational programs. Visit PittCountyNC.gov/FireMarshal or call Emergency Management at 252-902-3950.
Pitt County’s Mission is to enhance the community’s well-being with care, respect and efficiency. Learn more: PittCountyNC.gov/StrategicPlan.
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Media Contact: Dawn C. Jones, Director, Public Information & Media Relations | dawn.jones@pittcountync.gov | 252-902-2993
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