Illinois officials have announced the theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week, and they are hoping it encourages residents to be safer around an item that’s almost always on hand. Fire officials will focus on lithium-ion battery safety; they’re in electronics we use every day like smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones and toys.
“This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign emphasizes the critical importance of safely using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires in our homes,” said Acting Illinois State Fire Marshal Allen Reyne. “By following the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, we can reduce risks and protect our communities. We look forward to working alongside our partners to share this vital safety message—not only during Fire Prevention Week, but throughout the year—to help build a safer, more fire-resilient Illinois.”