Update on 10/8/26 - Due to expected inclement weather, NCFD has canceled Fire Safety Fest 2026.
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The North Charleston Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to support Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.
To educate the community about safe charging, the North Charleston Fire Department is hosting its annual Fire Safety Fest on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Charleston Area Convention Center, Lot E, 5001 Coliseum Drive in North Charleston.
The community is invited to enjoy apparatus displays from multiple agencies, a children’s section, educational booths, live demonstrations, food trucks and entertainment. Learn more here.
Many devices used in daily life — including phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes and scooters — run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged incorrectly, they can overheat, start a fire or even explode.
“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Laura Kelley, fire safety coordinator. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”
To stay fire-safe, the NFPA recommends the following:
- Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge devices on a table, desk or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches or under pillows.
- Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.
- Unplug your device when it is fully charged.
- Charge larger items such as e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside and away from exits.
- When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging.
For additional fire safety information, follow the North Charleston Fire Department on its website.