Fire Prevention Week Highlights Lithium-Ion Batteries Safety
Published on October 08, 2025
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue is joining fire departments nationwide in recognizing National Fire Prevention Week, October 5–11, 2025. This year’s theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” highlights important safety tips for using rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that are found in many everyday devices.
“Lithium-ion batteries power many products in our lives, like e-bikes, power tools, laptops, smart watches, cell phones, vapes, cordless vacuums, and even children’s toys,” said Luke Smidt, Sioux Falls Fire Rescue’s Division Chief of Professional Standards. “These devices are convenient and nearly everywhere, but if not handled correctly, they can pose serious fire risks. This week is about raising awareness and promoting safe practices to protect our homes and community.”
If used incorrectly or damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, Sioux Falls Fire Rescue encourages everyone to:
- Buy products that have a safety certification mark: Look for UL, ETL, or CSA safety marks on products containing lithium-ion batteries. Avoid uncertified products that may increase fire risk.
- Charge safely: Use the charger provided by the manufacturer, follow charging instructions, place devices on hard surfaces, and unplug once fully charged.
- Recycle responsibly: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or curbside recycling. Instead, use proper recycling facilities.
For Sioux Falls residents, lithium-ion batteries can be recycled at the City of Sioux Falls’ Household Hazardous Waste Facility (1015 East Chambers Street). To learn more about the facility, visit siouxfalls.gov/HHWF.
In addition to Fire Prevention Week, Sioux Falls Fire Rescue provides numerous public education programs throughout the year.
“From teaching students how to escape a home fire to helping families understand smoke alarm safety, our programs are designed to build lifelong fire safety habits,” said Kyle Blakeslee, Fire and Life Safety Educator for Sioux Falls Fire Rescue.
For more information on fire prevention programs, visit siouxfalls.gov/fire.