The Wheeling Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to support National Fire Prevention Week 2026. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps you can take to recharge safely.

Many devices used in our daily lives—phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and more—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged improperly, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

“Safe charging starts with a few simple habits,” said Assistant Fire Chief Buck Davidson with the department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention. “Using the right charger, keeping devices on a hard surface while they charge, and paying attention to warning signs can help reduce the risk of a battery-related fire.”

National Fire Prevention Week (October 4-10, 2026) — now in its 104th year — was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of October 8–10, 1871. That devastating fire killed approximately 300 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned over 2,000 acres. Since 1922, FPW has been observed during the week of October 9 to raise public awareness about fire safety and prevention.

WFD’s Bureau of Fire Prevention offers these key safety tips and guidelines:

• Use the right charger. Use the charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge on a hard surface. Keep devices off beds, couches, and other soft surfaces where heat can build up.
• Watch for warning signs. Stop using a device if it becomes very hot, smokes, or has an unusual smell.
• Unplug when fully charged. Don’t leave devices charging longer than necessary.
• Charge larger devices safely. Charge e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits.
  

As part of Fire Prevention Week, WFD will host informational tables at the following local stores from 10 a.m. to Noon:

• Monday, Oct. 5 – Mount DeChantal Kroger
• Tuesday, Oct. 6 – Warwood Kroger
• Wednesday, Oct. 7 – Elm Grove Riesbeck’s
  

Firefighters will be on hand to answer questions and provide free educational materials.

WFD also reminds residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms twice a year, ideally during Daylight Saving Time changes. This year’s “Fall Back” date is 2 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 1.