Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS Ready for National Fire Prevention Week

Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS is prepared to recognize National Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, 2026, by encouraging residents, families, and businesses to take simple steps to prevent fires and protect themselves and their loved ones.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” The campaign highlights the importance of safely using, charging, and storing lithium-ion batteries and the devices they power.

Lithium-ion batteries are found in many everyday products, including cell phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, electric bicycles, electric scooters, and other rechargeable devices. While these batteries are generally safe when used properly, damaged batteries, improper chargers, overcharging, and unsafe charging practices can create a risk of fire.

Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS encourages residents to:

• Use only the charger and power adapter designed for the device.
• Purchase devices and batteries from reputable manufacturers and retailers.
• Never use a battery or device that is damaged, swollen, leaking, overheating, or producing an unusual odor.
• Do not charge devices under pillows, on beds, or on couches where heat can accumulate.
• Charge devices on a hard, noncombustible surface away from combustible materials.
• Do not leave lithium-ion batteries or devices charging unattended for extended periods.
• Keep e-bikes, e-scooters, and their batteries away from exits and escape routes.
• Never dispose of lithium-ion batteries in household trash or recycling containers. Follow local requirements for proper battery disposal and recycling.

“Fire prevention begins with awareness and simple everyday actions,” said Fire Chief James Johnson. “Our goal during Fire Prevention Week is to provide residents with practical information that can help prevent fires before they occur. Lithium-ion battery safety is especially important as these devices become an increasingly common part of our daily lives.”

Although Fire Prevention Week provides an opportunity to focus attention on fire safety, Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS reminds residents that fire prevention is a year-round responsibility.

Residents should also make sure their homes have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, develop and practice a home fire escape plan, keep exits clear, and, whenever possible, know two ways out of every room.

Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS recently participated in community fire-safety outreach, providing residents with information about smoke alarms, home fire safety, and emergency preparedness. Department personnel will continue working with community organizations, businesses, schools, and residents to promote fire prevention and life safety throughout the Township.

“Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” This Fire Prevention Week, Upper Merion Township Fire & EMS encourages everyone to take a few minutes to look around their home, workplace, and community and identify simple steps that can reduce fire risk.

For additional fire prevention information or questions regarding fire and life safety in Upper Merion Township, contact the Upper Merion Township Fire Marshal’s Office at 610-205-8554.