MUSCATINE, Iowa — Lithium-ion batteries have become a cornerstone of modern life. Found in everything from smartphones and laptops to power tools, scooters, and even cars, these rechargeable batteries power much of the technology that families rely on every day. But along with their convenience comes a growing concern: fire safety.
To raise awareness about the safe use and handling of lithium-ion batteries, the Muscatine Fire Department (MFD) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) for Fire Prevention Week™, observed October 5–11, 2025. The theme of this year’s campaign is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
The nationwide initiative highlights the potential hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries and provides guidance on how to buy, charge, and recycle them safely.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, reliable, and nearly everywhere in our daily lives,” said Muscatine Fire Chief Mike Hartman. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign highlights the need for residents to handle these batteries safely by following the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach to reduce fire risks in the home.”
Understanding the Risk
While lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when manufactured and used properly, they can present unique fire hazards. The U.S. Fire Administration and NFPA report that fires involving these batteries are increasing as their use becomes more widespread.
Key dangers include:
- Thermal runaway — when batteries overheat due to damage, overcharging, or manufacturing defects, leading to rapid increases in temperature.
- Self-oxidizing chemicals — which allow fires to burn hotter and longer than typical household fires.
- Toxic and flammable gases — released when batteries fail, creating additional health risks.
- Reignition risks — even when a fire seems extinguished, lithium-ion batteries can reignite hours or days later.
These characteristics make lithium-ion battery fires difficult to control, requiring special tactics and equipment by firefighters. Prevention, therefore, is the most effective way to stay safe.
Three Steps to Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Fire Prevention Week emphasizes a simple three-part approach:
1. Buy Only Listed Products
- Before purchasing, check www.saferproducts.gov for recalls.
- Choose products with certification marks from nationally recognized testing laboratories.
- Be cautious with inexpensive items purchased online or from unfamiliar sellers, as these may not meet safety standards.
2. Charge Devices Safely
- Use the charger provided with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge on hard, stable surfaces—never on couches, beds, or under pillows where heat can build.
- Plug chargers directly into wall outlets instead of power strips or extension cords, which can overload and increase fire risk.
- Avoid overcharging—unplug devices when they reach full battery.
3. Recycle Batteries Responsibly
- Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the household trash or curbside recycling.
- Cover battery terminals with tape before disposal to prevent sparks.
- Take used batteries and devices to certified drop-off centers. Visit www.call2recycle.org to locate a site near you.
Recycling batteries in the Muscatine County service area
Regular, non-rechargeable batteries, such as A, AA, AAA, C, D, and 9-volt batteries, should have their ends tapped before being disposed of in regular trash. Do NOT put these types of batteries in the recycle bins.
“Any type of rechargeable battery, including Button, Lithium Ion batteries, and Nickel-cadmium, should have the ends taped off and be dropped off at the front office at the Transfer Station,” David Popp, Solid Waste Manager for the City of Muscatine, said.
The Transfer Station is the regional collection center for Muscatine and Louisa Counties with the exception of the City of Wilton.
“These (batteries) can be recycled at no charge,” Popp said. “Lead-acid batteries (car batteries) are included as batteries that can be recycled for no charge at the Transfer Station.”
Local Outreach and Events
As part of Fire Prevention Week, the Muscatine Fire Department will host a Public Safety Open House on Sunday, October 5, from 12–3 p.m. at the Public Safety Building, 312 East 5th Street, Muscatine.
The open house will feature interactive safety demonstrations, educational booths, and opportunities for residents to meet local firefighters and emergency responders. Families will be able to learn about lithium-ion battery safety, home fire escape planning, and other life-saving fire prevention strategies.
“Public education is one of the best tools we have to reduce fire risks in our community,” Chief Hartman said. “We encourage everyone—families, individuals, and businesses—to attend the Open House and take advantage of the resources available during Fire Prevention Week.”
Stay Informed
For more information about Fire Prevention Week activities in Muscatine, please contact the Muscatine Fire Department at 563-263-9233. Additional resources on lithium-ion battery safety and fire prevention can be found at www.fpw.org.
Additional Information:
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Handout - FEMA (PDF)
Recycling Rechargeable Batteries – Iowa DNR (PDF)