State Fire Marshal Highlights Lithium-Ion Battery Safety for Fire Prevention Week

October 7, 2025

By: Scanner Alerts Media Group

The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office is partnering with the Department of Environmental Services and the National Fire Protection Association during Fire Prevention Week to promote safe buying, charging, and recycling of lithium-ion batteries commonly found in devices such as smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, e-cigarettes, toys, and power tools.

According to the release, New Hampshire has seen fires linked to lithium-ion battery failures in recent years. State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey said the campaign aims to help residents reduce risk by following simple steps to use these batteries safely. The theme of this year’s Fire Prevention Week is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

The NFPA’s key safety guidance includes:

Buy only listed products and look for UL or other nationally recognized testing labels; be cautious of products from third-party vendors that may not meet safety standards.

Charge devices safely: use the charger and cord provided by the manufacturer or a trusted replacement, charge on a hard flat surface, and avoid leaving devices plugged in after they are fully charged.

Recycle batteries responsibly: never place lithium-ion batteries in household trash or curbside recycling. As of July 1, 2025, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are banned from disposal in New Hampshire landfills and incinerators (RSA 149:M-27). Residents should use certified drop-off locations (call2recycle.org) or consult local facilities and NHDES resources (des.nh.gov).

NHDES Commissioner Robert Scott emphasized that proper recycling reduces fires in the waste stream and recovers valuable materials. Throughout Fire Prevention Week, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will join local departments at events statewide to raise awareness about lithium-ion battery safety and broader fire prevention.

Credit: New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office