FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2025

Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 5–11: Morgantown Fire Department Promotes Battery Safety

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 5–11, 2025, the Morgantown Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Gary Freshour and City Fire Marshal Capt. Jason Quinn, is launching a public education campaign to highlight the increasingly important role of lithium-ion battery safety in preventing home fires. This year’s National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) theme is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Lithium-ion batteries power many of our everyday devices, from smartphones and laptops to power tools, e-bikes, and portable speakers. While these batteries are efficient and widespread, they also present unique fire risks when misused, damaged, or improperly handled.

According to NFPA, the 2025 campaign focuses on three core safety actions to reduce fire risk:

• Buy only listed products — Look for safety certification marks such as UL, ETL, CSA or equivalents.
• Charge devices safely — Use the manufacturer’s recommended charger, avoid covering devices while charging and unplug once fully charged.
• Recycle batteries responsibly — Never discard lithium-ion batteries in regular trash or recycling bins. Use approved battery drop-off or recycling programs.

Local fire officials emphasize the importance of battery safety in everyday life.

“We rely more on these rechargeable devices every day,” said Chief Gary Freshour. “The risk may not always be obvious, but a damaged battery or overcharging can lead to overheating or fire. This Fire Prevention Week, our goal is to help every family in Morgantown understand how to use, charge and dispose of batteries in the safest way possible.”

Capt. Jason Quinn echoed the department’s focus on education.

“Education is our strongest tool,” Capt. Quinn said. “We encourage all Morgantown residents to take a few minutes this week to inspect how they charge their devices, check for damaged batteries or cords, and plan safer habits moving forward.”

Here are a few actionable tips for every household:

• Use only chargers from the original manufacturer or those clearly approved for the device.
• Charge devices on a hard, noncombustible surface (not on beds, sofas or carpets).
• Avoid charging devices overnight or leaving them plugged in once fully charged.
• Inspect batteries and devices regularly for swelling, heat, discoloration or unusual odors.
• Store spare batteries away from flammable materials and avoid extreme heat or cold.
• Use authorized battery drop-off points or recycling centers. For local recycling options, contact the Monongalia County Solid Waste Authority at (304) 292-3801.

###