OFFICE OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEAE: OCTOBER 5, 2026

Frederick County Observes Fire Prevention Week from October 4 – 10

“Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower”

FREDERICK, Md. – Fire Prevention Week is October 4 through 10 and this year’s national theme focuses on rechargeable battery safety. The Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) encourages everyone to learn how to safely purchase, charge, use, and recycle lithium-ion batteries.

“Most of us use devices powered by rechargeable batteries every day, and it’s easy to take them for granted,” said Fire Chief Tom Coe. “Fire Prevention Week is a great reminder to slow down and make sure we’re using these devices safely. Simple steps at home can help reduce the risk of a battery fire and keep our families, homes and community safer.”

Rechargeable batteries power many of the devices people use every day, including smartphones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and toys. While these batteries are convenient, they must be used and disposed of properly. A lithium-ion battery that is damaged, defective, overheated or improperly charged can become unstable, generate excessive heat, and, in some cases, start a fire.

Since 2024, DFRS has responded to over 30 calls involving lithium-ion batteries. The risk does not end when a battery is no longer needed. Batteries placed in household trash or recycling can be crushed or damaged during collection and processing, potentially causing fires in garbage trucks, transfer facilities, and other parts of the waste stream.

Frederick County: Rich History, Bright Future Winchester Hall ● 12 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701 ● 301-600-1100 ● Fax 301-600-1050 www.FrederickCountyMD.gov

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You can help reduce these risks by recognizing signs of a damaged battery, following the manufacturer’s charging instructions, and using appropriate battery recycling or collection programs.

Safe battery use starts with how and where devices are charged. Follow these tips to help reduce the risk of overheating and fire:

  • Use the correct charger. Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. The wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
  • Charge on a hard, flat surface. Charge devices on a table, desk or other hard surface. Do not charge them on a bed, couch or under a pillow. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging, and soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow.
  • Watch for warning signs. Stop using a device if it becomes unusually hot, swells, smokes or develops an unusual smell. These can be signs that the battery is damaged or failing.
  • Unplug when fully charged. Do not leave devices plugged in longer than necessary. Extended charging can add heat and stress to a battery.
  • Charge larger batteries safely. Charge e-bikes, scooters and other devices with larger batteries outside and away from exits. These batteries store more energy, and a failure can result in a rapidly growing fire that can spread quickly.
  • Follow airline safety rules. When traveling by plane, keep devices where you can see them while charging, and do not charge devices in overhead compartments. E- cigarettes and vapes should not be charged on a plane.

Fire Prevention Week Events and Resources

DFRS is offering events and resources throughout October to help the community prevent fires and prepare for emergencies.

  • Free, appointment-based curbside battery pickup: DFRS is partnering with the Division of Solid Waste and Recycling to offer free, appointment-based curbside pickup of lithium-ion batteries and small electronics, including cellphones, laptops and tablets. To sign up, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/BeALionTamer.
  • NFPA & Domino’s Fire Safety Program: On Thursday, October 8, from 4:30-7:30 p.m., DFRS will participate in the NFPA & Domino’s Fire Safety Program in partnership with the Urbana Domino’s location, Store No. 4684, at 3254B Bennett

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Creek Ave., Frederick, Md. 21704. Customers who call to order a pizza during this time may be randomly selected to have their pizza delivered by local firefighters, who will also test the home’s smoke alarm. If the alarm is working, the pizza will be free. If a new alarm is needed, firefighters will provide one. To order, call 240-341-

  • Frederick County Fire and Rescue Open House: You are invited to attend the Fire and Rescue Open House on Saturday, October 10, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at FSK Mall, 5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, Md. 21703. The event will feature live demonstrations, fire and life safety education, family-friendly activities, food trucks, equipment displays and more. To learn more about Fire Prevention Week and how you can get involved, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/FPW.

CONTACT: Sarah Campbell Communications Manager, MPIO Frederick County Fire & Rescue Services 301-600-1716

Frederick County, Maryland does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or source of income.