Fire Prevention Week Theme and Open House Date

September 24, 2026 – ROCHESTER, MINN. – The Rochester Fire Department (RFD) is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week (FPW) for more than 100 years, to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Charge Into Fire Safety. Safe Charging Is a Superpower!” This year’s theme focuses on the everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safer. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in. 

In recognition of Fire Safety Week happening October 4 to 10, the RFD is hosting open houses at all fire stations on Tuesday, October 6, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 

The station locations are as follows:  

• Fire Station 1, 521 S. Broadway Avenue
• Fire Station 2, 2185 Wheelock Dr NE
• Fire Station 3, 2755 2nd Street SW
• Fire Station 4, 1875 41st Street NW
• Fire Station 5, 305 28th Street SE 

“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Rochester Fire Marshal Ryan Sathre. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.” 

RFD offers these key tips related to lithium-ion batteries: 

• Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Charge devices on a table, desk or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches or under pillows. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.
• 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. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.
• Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside and away from exits. These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly and spread. 
• When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly. 

Visit RFD’s website Fire Prevention Week webpage for programs and activities in Rochester.