Arlington Fire Department hosts open house Oct. 24

The Arlington Fire Department announced Oct. 22 a Fire Prevention Week campaign focused on safe charging practices for lithium-ion batteries, along with a community open house this weekend.

The campaign, titled "Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower," highlights habits residents can use when charging devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, headphones, toys, e-cigarettes, lawn equipment, power tools, e-bikes and scooters. The department said damaged or improperly charged batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.

"Rechargeable devices are part of everyday life, but it's important to charge them safely," said Chief Kevin Kelley. "A few simple habits can help protect your home and family from a battery-related fire."

The department outlined six recommended practices: using only manufacturer-approved chargers, charging on hard surfaces rather than beds or couches, unplugging devices once fully charged, charging larger items like e-bikes and power tools outside when possible, stopping use of any device that becomes hot, swollen or emits unusual smells or sounds, and keeping devices in sight when charging on airplanes.

Additional tips include buying products listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, ETL or CSA, following manufacturer instructions, never disposing of lithium-ion batteries in household trash, and making sure smoke alarms work and household members know two ways out of each room.

The department's Fire Prevention "Open House" will take place Saturday, Oct. 24, from noon to 2 p.m. at Fire HQ, 411 Massachusetts Ave. Residents are invited to meet local firefighters, take part in fire safety activities and have free pizza and popcorn.

Over the next two weeks, the department will also visit each elementary school to teach children about fire safety through its S.A.F.E. Program, which stands for Student Awareness of Fire Education.

Source: Town of Arlington announcement, October 23, 2026.

Checked against the record: before publication this article was automatically compared with the original announcement.