Hagerstown Mayor Bill McIntire, with support from the City Council, has recognized October 2026 as Fire Prevention Month and urged residents to support the Hagerstown Fire Department’s community risk reduction efforts.
The city’s announcement focuses on fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which power devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, scooters and toys. These batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode if misused, damaged or improperly charged.
The city outlined several safe charging practices:
- Use the cord and charger supplied with the device or approved by its manufacturer.
- Charge devices on a hard, flat surface.
- Watch for warning signs, including excessive heat or swelling.
- Unplug devices when fully charged.
- Charge larger devices, such as e-bikes, outside and away from exits.
The announcement also highlighted fire prevention, safety education and community outreach by first responders.
Photo credits to The City of Hagerstown
