The theme for Fire Prevention Week™, October 5–11, 2025, is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – The Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ for over 100 years, to promote this year’s campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” This campaign highlights the importance of buying and charging lithium-ion batteries safely.
Most electronics in homes — including smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys — use lithium-ion batteries. In fact, nearly all rechargeable devices use this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, it’s important to know which devices in your home contain these batteries.
“Lithium-ion batteries make modern life easier, but they can be dangerous if not handled correctly,” said VIFEMS Director Antonio Stevens. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week is about giving our community the knowledge to use lithium-ion batteries safely and avoid fires.”
Buy only listed products
• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets safety standards.
• Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely
• Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it and follow manufacturer instructions.
• If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge your device on a hard surface; never under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch.
• Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug or remove the battery when fully charged.
Handle used batteries with care
• Never throw lithium-ion batteries in household trash or recycling bins, as they can ignite if damaged.
• Keep them in a safe, dry area away from heat sources and anything that can burn.
VIFEMS encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow safe buying and charging practices, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™.” To help the community put these practices into action, VIFEMS will be hosting a series of events across the territory in support of this year’s FPW campaign, including:
| Saturday, October 4, 2025 | STT/STJ: Home Depot Fire Safety Fair | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. |
| Sunday, October 5, 2025 | STT/STJ: Church Service at Lutheran Church of Reformation STX: Church Service at Victorious Believers Ministers | 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. |
| Monday, October 6, 2025 | STT/STJ/STX: Open House at all VIFEMS fire stations | All Day |
| Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | STT/STJ: Open House at all VIFEMS fire stations STX: School and station visits | All Day 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. |
| Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | STT/STJ: VIFEMS Drive-Through Giveaway STX: VIFEMS Motorcade | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 6 p.m. – Until |
| Thursday, October 9, 2025 | STT/STJ: Staff Appreciation BBQ STX: School and station visits | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. |
| Friday, October 10, 2025 | STT/STJ: The Saints Experience Workshop STX: Staff Appreciation Luncheon | 9:30 a.m. – Until 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. |
For more information about FPW programs and activities, contact the VIFEMS offices:
• St. Thomas / St. John District: (340) 774-7610
• St. Croix District: (340) 773-8050
For additional information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.