A Guide to Fire Prevention Week in 2026

What is Fire Prevention Week?

Fire Prevention Week (FPW) is an annual observance aimed at educating the public about fire safety. In 2026, Fire Prevention Week runs from October 4 to 10 with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower." It focuses on practicing daily charging habits that reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.

Importance of Fire Prevention Week

Established in 1922 by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), it commemorates the Great Chicago Fire and serves as a reminder of the devastating effects of fires on communities. The week encourages individuals and families to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their homes from fire hazards.

This week also encourages workplaces to review their fire safety plans and other safety procedures to assess if they are still usable for possible incidents. Employers and managers are encouraged to create and promote informational events such as drills and training seminars to reorient workers on proper fire mitigation, evacuation, and prevention practices, ensuring their safety should a fire break out.

Fire Prevention Week’s Theme in 2026: Safe Charging Is a Superpower

The theme of Fire Prevention Week 2026, “Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower”, emphasizes just how dangerous lithium-ion batteries are, especially with how prevalent they are these days. In particular, it highlights six essential actions in fire safety based on NFPA guidance:

Before you plug in

• Check the charger: Stick with the one that came in the box or one the manufacturer approves. A mismatched charger can send the wrong voltage or current, which pushes the battery harder than it was built for.

• Choose the spot: Set the device on something solid and flat, like a desk, table or bare floor. Bedding and cushions trap heat that should be escaping.

While it charges

• Pull the plug when it's full: A device that has finished charging is still connected. Disconnect it, and take the charger out of the wall as well.

• Move big batteries out of the building: E-bikes, scooters and power tools hold a lot of energy, so charge them outdoors if you can. If that's not possible, keep them away from doors and walkways so an exit is never blocked.

• Keep devices in view when travelling: On a plane, charge where you can see the device, and leave e-cigarettes and vapes uncharged. If something seems off, tell a crew member straight away.

When something looks wrong

• Stop using it: Heat you can feel, a swollen case, a strange smell, leaking, smoke, or popping and hissing are all signs the battery is in trouble. Don't keep using a device that shows any of them.

Additional Fire Safety Tips

While smoke alarms and fire escape plans are the primary focus of this year’s fire prevention week, there are more fire safety practices that can help you keep your home safe.

• Fire Escape Planning: Develop and practice an escape plan with all household members, ensuring everyone knows multiple exit routes.

• Fire Safety in the Kitchen: Stay vigilant while cooking; avoid leaving food unattended and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

• Fire Extinguishers: Keep accessible fire extinguishers on each level of your home, particularly in kitchens and garages, and ensure everyone knows how to use them properly.

Check out more fire safety tips you can implement at home and at work.