A Safer Charleston

Your Charleston Fire Department strives to build a safer Charleston through fire & life safety education.  The information below and in the left margin is provided to assist you on common topic areas, hazards, and educating those around you to reduce hazards in our community.  

The 2025 Fire Prevention Week Theme is:

FPW25_Theme

1. Choose Certified Products
When purchasing anything with a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. These marks mean the product has been tested and meets key safety standards.

2. Charge the Right Way
Always use the charger and cords that came with your device and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you need a replacement, buy one directly from the manufacturer or one they approve. Charge your device on a hard, flat surface, avoid overcharging, and unplug or remove the battery once it’s fully charged.

3. Recycle Batteries Safely
Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins — they can start fires. Instead, recycle them at a certified battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a safe drop-off spot near you.

Learn more about the annual Fire Prevention Week themes and information at www.nfpa.org/fpw. 

Additional resources by topic are located in the left margin.