Fire Prevention Week 2025
Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th to honor the lives lost in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The week provides us a chance to reflect on this tragedy and to promote fire safety awareness across the country. The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2025 is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” This campaign focuses on the growing fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday devices like phones, toys, e-bikes, and power tools. While these batteries have their benefits, they also pose unique fire safety risks.
As the Midwest’s leader in fire and life safety, USA Fire Protection is here to help you take charge of your safety. We have prepared a week’s worth of activities that you can do at home to reduce fire risks.
MONDAY: History of Fire Prevention Week
Kick off the week by learning about the history of Fire Prevention Week! Watch this short video from the NFPA to understand how the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 led to a nationwide movement for fire safety.
TUESDAY: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, but they can be dangerous if misused. When it comes to lithium-ion batteries, be sure to:
- Check for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means that the device meets important safety standards.
- Charge devices safely. Only use the cords that came with the product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Recycle the battery or the device at a safe battery recycling location. Throwing lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins can start a fire. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
Read our blog on lithium-ion battery safety to learn more, and don’t forget to download our Do’s and Don’ts graphic to share with your household.
WEDNESDAY: Home Fire Protection Check
Take 10 minutes to walk through your home and check your fire protection essentials:
- Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries if needed.
- Check if you have a fire extinguisher on hand and that it is not expired. If you do not have any extinguishers, consider placing a fire extinguisher on every level of your home.
- If your home has fire sprinklers, check for any signs of damage, leaks, or corrosion. Call or click to contact USAFP for service if necessary.
- Review your fire safety protocols with your loved ones, such as fire escape plan, how to use a fire extinguisher, etc.
THURSDAY: Fire Safety in the Kitchen
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, especially during the fall and winter months. As we prepare for the seasons ahead, be sure to follow these tips to keep your kitchen safe:
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
- Keep flammable items, like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains, away from your stovetop.
- Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
- Keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires – never use water, as this will fuel a grease fire and worsen it.
Visit our blog for more kitchen fire safety facts and tips: Serving Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen. Also, be sure to download our Grease Fire Do’s and Don’ts for more tips:
FRIDAY: Home Fire Escape Plan
End the week with a fun and useful activity! Gather up your family and create a home fire escape plan. When finished, be sure to practice this plan with your loved ones. Here’s how to create and practice your plan:
- ✏️🗺️ Draw a map of your home with two exits per room
- 🚪👟 Practice your escape route with everyone in your household
- ☀️🌙 Do one drill during the day and one at night
- 📍 📫Choose a safe meeting spot outside
Download a home fire escape plan guide here: Escape Planning Tip Sheet
Need Help with Fire & Life Safety Systems?
Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or building engineer, our team is here to help you plan, install, and maintain fire protection systems tailored to your needs.
📞 Call us at 844-MYUSAFP (698-7237)
🌐 Visit our website to learn more or request a free quote