JACKSON — The Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging residents to practice safe charging habits as part of Fire Prevention Week, focusing on the dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” highlights steps people can take to reduce the risk of fires caused by rechargeable batteries found in phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes and scooters.
State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney said there have been at least 15 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries in Mississippi this year.
“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” Chaney said. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”
Fire officials recommend using the charger and cord that came with a device or one approved by the manufacturer. Devices should be charged on hard, flat surfaces rather than beds, couches or under pillows, where heat can become trapped.
Residents should also stop using a device if it becomes unusually hot, begins to swell, smokes or develops an unusual smell, which can indicate a damaged or failing battery.
Officials recommend unplugging devices once they are fully charged and charging larger devices such as e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside and away from exits because their larger batteries can store more energy and fires can spread quickly if they fail.
Travelers should keep devices within sight while charging on airplanes and should never charge devices in overhead compartments. E-cigarettes and vapes should not be charged on planes.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office also reminds residents that seven out of 10 fires occur in the home and offers additional fire safety tips, including keeping matches and lighters away from children, avoiding overloaded extension cords, never leaving candles unattended and never smoking in bed.
Residents who need smoke alarms should contact their local fire department. If the department cannot assist, they can contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at 601-359-1061.
For more information and additional fire prevention resources, visit the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office fire preparedness page.
