MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS News) - As households increasingly adopt electric transportation devices and battery-powered lawn equipment, fire safety officials are raising awareness about the serious fire risks linked to lithium-ion battery chargers. From electric vehicles, e-bikes, and e-scooters to riding lawnmowers, power tools, and everyday appliances, the proliferation of high-capacity rechargeable equipment inside residential homes and attached garages has made proper charging habits a vital line of defense against catastrophic home fires.

Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Fire Marshal Brian Lowe highlighted that the national focus for Fire Prevention Month (October 2026) centers directly on this issue...

A primary catalyst for lithium-ion battery fires is thermal runaway - a condition often triggered by electrical faults, physical damage, manufacturing defects, or continuous overcharging. When batteries remain connected to power sources long after reaching capacity, heat can rapidly build up inside the cells, potentially leading to intense fires that are notoriously difficult to extinguish. To mitigate these risks, fire officials urge residents to establish strict charging routines for all household electronics and motorized equipment.

As the years tick by, fire codes will continue to change as personal needs evolve alongside growing technology...

Lowe emphasized that preventing charger-related fires requires basic operational precautions. Lowe emphasized that preventing charger-related fires requires basic operational precautions... The rapid growth of personal transportation gear - such as electric bicycles and stand-up scooters - presents unique hazards inside residential spaces.

Addressing these devices, which are formally designated as "micromobility" in modern fire codes, Lowe cautioned against leaving chargers plugged in continuously or unattended in garages and hallways. Lowe added that consumers should always "try to use the right batteries with the right equipment". By adhering to manufacturer guidelines, using certified charging units, and disconnecting equipment promptly, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of battery-related fires.

Growth Continues: Fire crews have already responded to around 19,000 calls this year and that number is only going up... Over the past 25-years, the number of calls that the fire department responds to has grown by more than 2,000 percent. In 2001, as an example, fire crews would typically respond to 1,100 calls annually. Over that same time-frame, the number of residents in the City of Murfreesboro has more than doubled – climbing from 72,826 residents in 2001 to a population of about 180-thousand residents.

Need a Smoke Alarm? If your family needs a free smoke alarm installed in your house, contact Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue... They can also install a free carbon monoxide detector. So far this year, they've installed about 130 detectors in local homes throughout the City of Murfreesboro. CLICK HERE to Learn More.

Open House: An open house will take place at Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue Station #11 on Blaze Drive next to Blackman High School. Parents are encouraged to bring their children for station tours, freebies and more. The open house will be between 9am and 11am. Guests will even learn how to use fire extinguisher, through a special hands on digital prop. Friday, October 9th is the day to mark in your calendar, as part of Fire Prevention Month.

• To learn more about “Community Connect,” visit the Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue website or CLICK HERE for a direct link to the page.

• Hear our recent Podcast with MFRD HERE.