• Free, family-focused events to be held the week of October 5th-11th across Detroit

• This year’s theme: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home”

• Interviews with DFD leadership available upon request

The Detroit Fire Department (DFD) is once again joining forces with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to celebrate Fire Prevention Week, which runs October 5–11, 2025. This year’s national campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” shines a light on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from smartphones and tablets to e-bikes, power tools, and even children’s toys.

Lithium-ion batteries make modern life possible — but when they’re damaged, used incorrectly, or charged unsafely, they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. The Detroit Fire Department is encouraging all residents to learn three critical steps to reduce risk: buy only tested and listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.

To engage the community in fun and meaningful ways, the Detroit Fire Department will host three large, family-friendly events across the city: 

• Sunday, October 5th from noon – 3 p.m. at Engine 56, 18601 Ryan Rd. (D3)

• Wednesday, October 8th from 4 – 7 p.m. at Engine 54, 16825 Trinity St. (D1)

• Saturday, October 11th from noon – 3 p.m. at Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort St. (D6)

Each event will feature:

• Fire extinguisher and escape plan demonstrations

• The Detroit Fire Department “Smoke House” for hands-on fire safety training

• Hands-only CPR instruction

• Safety materials and giveaways, including carbon monoxide detectors

• Entertainment by the DFD Clown Team

• Free food, music, and inflatables for children

“Educating our community about fire prevention has always been one of our top priorities,” said Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms. “This year, we are investing heavily in making sure every Detroit resident understands the risks of lithium-ion batteries and has the tools to keep their family safe. Fire prevention is not just about responding to emergencies — it’s about preparing our residents and visitors, so emergencies never happen in the first place.”

According to the NFPA, lithium-ion batteries are involved in a growing number of fires nationwide. Simple steps — such as charging devices on hard surfaces, using manufacturer-approved chargers, and never throwing batteries into the trash — can drastically reduce the danger. “Lithium-ion batteries are safe when handled properly, but they need to be treated with care,” said Fire Marshal Don Thomas. “We want residents to know the importance of buying listed products, charging them safely, and recycling responsibly. By taking these precautions, Detroiters can protect their homes and loved ones.”

While the theme is serious, the events are designed to make learning fun. “We work hard to make Fire Prevention Week a celebration that Detroiters look forward to every year,” said Community Relations Chief James Harris. “Our events are fun, interactive, and full of practical take-home lessons that can save lives. Families leave not only entertained but empowered with knowledge they can use right away.”

Safety tips for lithium-ion batteries

The Detroit Fire Department and NFPA recommend these important guidelines to reduce risk in your home:

• Buy smart: Purchase devices and batteries only from reputable manufacturers and sellers. Look for certification marks from recognized testing laboratories.

• Use the right charger: Only use chargers and cords that came with your device or are approved by the manufacturer.

• Charge on safe surfaces: Always charge batteries on a hard, flat surface — never on a bed, couch, or under a pillow.

• Avoid overcharging: Unplug devices once they are fully charged. Don’t leave devices charging overnight.

• Check for damage: Stop using batteries that are swollen, cracked, or giving off unusual heat or odor.

• Store safely: Keep batteries at room temperature. Avoid extreme heat, cold, or direct sunlight.

• Recycle responsibly: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins. Use approved recycling centers (visit call2recycle.org to find locations).

• Have working smoke detectors: Install and regularly test smoke detectors in your home to ensure early warning in case of fire.

Fire prevention beyond the home

The Detroit Fire Department’s Fire Marshal Division and Community Relations Division are active year-round, conducting hundreds of school visits, community presentations, and fire safety inspections. In addition, the DFD’s Plans and Exams Section plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of Detroit’s commercial and residential developments, reviewing thousands of building plans annually to confirm compliance with fire and life safety codes. This behind-the-scenes work is essential to keeping Detroit’s growing neighborhoods safe.

Prevention saves lives

In 2024, Detroit experienced hundreds of accidental residential fires — many of which could have been prevented with proper awareness and preparation. Working smoke detectors, fire escape plans, and safe use of everyday devices all contribute to reducing these risks.

Community partners make it possible

Detroit’s Fire Prevention Week events are made possible through the support of community sponsors. Target Corporation is the title sponsor again this year, with additional support from Team Wellness Center, Griffin Plastic Surgery, Cherry Monkeys, Elite Gameplay, and local food partners including Little Caesars. Their generosity ensures that these events are not only educational but also festive gatherings for the entire community.

Detroit’s commitment to safety

The Detroit Fire Department has proudly served the city since 1860 and is recognized nationally for its outstanding emergency response and fire prevention work. The Detroit Fire Department is the largest HEARTSafe Community in the US and trains thousands of residents a year in Hands-only CPR. With Code 1 response times well below the national average and a strong commitment to education and enforcement, DFD has saved countless lives and continues to invest in the safety of Detroit families.

Residents can learn more about fire safety by visiting any Detroit firehouse, attending one of this year’s Fire Prevention Week events, or visiting detroitmi.gov/departments/detroit-fire-department. For national information on lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.