Woodbury Fire Department Urges Safe Charging Habits

Woodbury, N.J. — October 4 — The Woodbury Fire Department urges residents to practice safe charging habits as part of Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 4 to October 10, 2026. 

The 2023 national initiative “ Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” highlights ways to lower fire hazards connected to lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops, e-bikes, scooters, power tools, and similar devices. The National Fire Protection Association notes that safe charging practices can decrease the chance of fires caused by batteries. 

The department encourages residents to use chargers supplied with their devices or approved by the manufacturer and to charge electronics on hard, flat surfaces rather than on beds, couches or under pillows. Devices should be unplugged when fully charged, and charging equipment should be kept away from combustible materials and clear of exit routes.

Residents should stop using batteries that become unusually hot, swell, leak, change shape or produce unusual odors. Lithium-ion batteries should be taken to an approved collection site rather than placed in household trash.

If a battery begins smoking or catches fire, residents should evacuate, stay outside and call 911 instead of attempting to handle the battery themselves.

The Woodbury Fire Department encourages residents to make safe charging part of their daily routine to help protect their homes and communities.