Shakopee Fire Department Promotes Fire Prevention Week with Focus on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
By Ryan Dahnert
As Fire Prevention Week approaches (Oct. 5–11), the Shakopee Fire Department is focusing its outreach on a growing concern in homes nationwide: lithium-ion battery safety. “As firefighters, we see firsthand how quickly a small hazard can turn into a life-changing emergency. That’s why fire prevention is so important to us.” said Shakopee Fire Chief Joe Simon.
This year’s national theme, “Charge Into Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” highlights fire risks associated with the rechargeable batteries that power everything from phones and tablets to e-bikes, power tools, and toys. While these batteries are efficient and commonly used, they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if damaged or improperly handled.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “Making sure the public knows how to handle them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they present.”
Safety Tips for Households
In preparation for Fire Prevention Week, the Shakopee Fire Department is encouraging residents to take the following precautions when buying, charging, and disposing of lithium-ion batteries:
When Buying:
Look for products that have been tested by a nationally recognized lab and display a safety certification.
Be cautious of low-cost devices or knockoffs sold online that may not meet safety standards.
When Charging:
Use only the charger that came with your device, or one recommended by the manufacturer.
Charge on a hard, flat surface—never on a couch, bed, or under a pillow.
Avoid overcharging; unplug devices once fully charged.
When Disposing:
Do not throw batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins.
Use certified battery recycling programs like Call2Recycle.org to find safe drop-off locations.
Local Outreach and Education
To help get the message out, local State Farm insurance agent Katie Odeen recently donated a toolkit of Fire Prevention Week resources to the Shakopee Fire Department, providing activities and information for children and adults alike that include age-appropriate messages about lithium-ion batteries and other home fire safety and prevention resources.
The department plans to distribute these resources during community events and school visits in early October. “We want everyone in Shakopee to feel safe and informed, especially as new technologies like lithium-ion batteries become more common in our homes. By sharing simple safety tips and having real conversations with our community, we can help prevent tragedies before they happen.” Chief Simon said.
Fire Prevention Week is the nation’s oldest public health observance and has been recognized since 1922. Local fire departments across North America participate by educating the public about fire hazards and promoting simple steps that can save lives.
For more fire safety tips and resources, visit fpw.org, sparky.org, or sparkyschoolhouse.org.