By MDA Staff Writer | October 9, 2026
CLEVELAND, Miss. — Firefighters in Cleveland are taking an important safety message directly into local classrooms as part of National Fire Prevention Week, helping students understand how everyday electronic devices can become fire hazards when batteries are damaged or improperly charged.
The Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department is participating in this year’s national awareness campaign, which runs October 4–10.
The department’s educational outreach focuses on lithium-ion battery safety, a growing concern as rechargeable devices become increasingly common in homes, schools and workplaces.
This year’s campaign, organized by the National Fire Protection Association, carries the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
The campaign emphasizes that devices such as cellphones, tablets, laptops, electronic toys, power tools and electric scooters require proper charging and handling to reduce fire risks.
According to information shared by the City of Cleveland, firefighters have been working with local students to explain those risks and encourage safer habits.
The department has also provided fire-safety education to Junior Fire Marshals, including lessons about recognizing smoke alarms and responding appropriately during a fire.
Students were reminded of the importance of staying low and moving toward the nearest safe exit when a smoke alarm sounds.
The lessons are intended to help children recognize potentially dangerous situations and understand how to respond during an emergency.
National fire-safety officials warn that damaged or improperly charged lithium-ion batteries can overheat and potentially cause fires.
The campaign encourages families to use appropriate charging equipment, inspect batteries and charging devices for damage, and follow manufacturers’ safety instructions.
For Cleveland families, the school outreach provides an opportunity to reinforce those lessons at home.
Parents and caregivers can help by discussing emergency exits, testing smoke alarms and teaching children how to recognize warning signs involving rechargeable devices.
The Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department’s participation highlights the importance of fire prevention education before an emergency occurs.
National Fire Prevention Week concludes Saturday, October 10, but the safety practices being emphasized remain relevant throughout the year.
Photo courtesy of: Cleveland Fire Departmen
Source: Cleveland Fire Department School Safety Outreach — October 7 Report