Summit Fire Chief Brian Harnois is warning residents that improperly charged lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.

Harnois issued a safety alert on Thursday, Oct. 1, ahead of Fire Prevention Week, which runs Sunday, Oct. 4, through Saturday, Oct. 10. This year's national theme is "Safe Charging is a Superpower," and it focuses on the growing risk of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.

"When devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are improperly charged, they can overheat and start a fire or even explode," Harnois said.

The risks are growing. Lithium-ion batteries power phones, tablets, laptops, toys, e-bikes and scooters, storing large amounts of energy in a small space. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which developed the campaign, said fire departments across the country are reporting a growing number of lithium-ion battery fires and explosions, though the NFPA does not yet track national home fire statistics for those incidents specifically.

The Summit Fire Department shared several NFPA-backed safety tips for residents:

• Use the right charger. Stick with the cord and charger that came with a device, or one approved by the manufacturer. Off-brand chargers may not meet safety standards.
• Charge on hard, flat surfaces. Tables, desks and bare floors allow airflow. Beds, pillows and couches trap heat and can cause batteries to overheat.
• Unplug when fully charged. Leaving a device plugged in adds heat and stress to the battery.
• Watch for warning signs. Stop using a device that feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.
• Charge e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside when possible. Their larger batteries store more energy, and fires can spread fast if a battery fails. Do not block exits while charging.

Summit already has a local ordinance governing e-bikes and electric scooters, with penalties up to $500 for violations.

Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of outreach and advocacy, said Sept. 24 that not everyone understands the dangers lithium-ion batteries present, especially around charging. The NFPA campaign runs nationally through local fire departments and schools, according to Fire News.

Residents can reach the Summit Fire Department at (908) 277-1033 or visit cityofsummit.org/fire for local resources.