Last updated: September 23, 2025
Article
NPS Structural Fire Program observes Fire Prevention Week 2025
NPS/C. Stevenson
Each October since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association has observed Fire Prevention Week to provide focused public education on the importance of fire and life safety. The October timeframe commemorates the Great Chicago Fire which began on Oct. 8, 1871 and killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres.
In 2025, Fire Prevention Week™ is observed from October 5-11, and the National Park Service (NPS) Structural Fire Program will promote the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-ion Batteries in Your Home."
The National Park Service has a few tips to help keep you and your family safe when you visit a facility in a national park:
- Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
- Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
- Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
NPS/C. Stevenson
National Park Service Division of Fire and Aviation Management 2025 Fire Prevention Week Proclamation
WHEREAS, the National Park Service is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our national parks; and
WHEREAS, fire remains a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally, and the presence of lithium-ion batteries in many household devices and work equipment introduces unique fire risks; and
WHEREAS, most of the electronics used in our homes and workplaces daily — including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, and toys — are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which if misused, damaged, or improperly charged, can overheat, start a fire, or explode; and
WHEREAS, the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) reports an increase in battery-related fires, underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries; and
WHEREAS, individuals using lithium-ion battery devices should follow three key calls to action: Buy only listed products, charge batteries safely, and recycle them responsibly to prevent battery-related fires; and
WHEREAS, lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space, and improper use such as overcharging, using off-brand chargers without safety certification, or exposing batteries to damage can result in fire or explosion; and
WHEREAS, the proper disposal and recycling of lithium-ion batteries help prevent environmental hazards and reduce fire risks in the home and community; and
WHEREAS, the National Park Service is dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education, and community outreach; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 Fire Prevention Week™ theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” serves to remind us of the importance of using, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely to reduce the risk of fires in homes, workplaces, and communities.
THEREFORE, I, Chris Wilcox, Chief of the National Park Service Fire and Aviation Management Division, and Shane Crutcher, Branch Chief, Structural Fire do hereby proclaim October 5–11, 2025 as Fire Prevention Week throughout the National Park Service, and we urge all employees and visitors to safely use lithium-ion battery-powered devices to prevent fires and protect lives.