National Fire Prevention: Week Charge Into Fire Safety™

It’s National Fire Prevention Week! In collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Approved Industries is helping customers’ Charge into Fire Safety’ by raising awareness about the hazards associated with electronic devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. This special week, running from October 5 to 11, 2025, is also the perfect time for you to take part in promoting fire safety in your community. Share this information with your neighbors, friends, and family, and let’s all work together to prevent fires.

Understanding the Dangers of Lithium-ion Batteries

The “Charge Into Fire Safety” campaign highlights a common household item that poses a growing fire risk. Lithium-ion batteries power a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, and power tools. When damaged or stored improperly, they can overheat, catch fire, and even explode. The NFPA recommends the following approach to mitigate these risks:

• Look Before Buying: When purchasing devices with lithium-ion batteries, look for a stamp of approval from Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or other nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging.
• Charge Safely: Always use the charger and power cord that came with the device and avoid overcharging. Using an incompatible charger could result in overheating. Always charge on a hard, non-combustible surface, and never on a wooden desk, bed, or sofa.
• Recycle Safely: Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or recycling bins. They can ignite or explode in your yard, waiting for pickup, during transport, or at recycling facilities. Instead, take them to a designated battery recycling location.

Common Causes of Chimney Fires

While a cozy fire is a source of warmth and comfort, fireplaces and chimneys harbor a hidden danger when not maintained properly.  

• Creosote Buildup: The most common cause of chimney fires is the buildup of creosote, a highly flammable tar-like residue that forms from the incomplete combustion of wood. It builds up on the inner walls of the chimney flue, smoke chamber, damper, and other components, creating a significant fire hazard.
• Burning unseasoned wood: Burning freshly cut wood logs causes more smoke due to the high moisture content, which accelerates creosote formation. Always burn firewood that has been seasoned or dried for at least six months.
• Obstructed flues: Bird nests, debris, and other blockages can restrict airflow, leading to back puffing that forces carbon monoxide into your home. This debris is also as combustible as kindling, increasing the fire risk.
• Cracked chimney liners: Cracks in the liner can allow intense heat and combustion gas vapors to ignite surrounding combustible materials in your home. It’s crucial to understand that a chimney fire can engulf an entire house in flames in less than three to five minutes.

Fire Prevention Solutions for Chimneys

Approved Industries offers a suite of advanced ceramic coatings and protective systems designed to reduce the risk of chimney fires and exposure to harmful contaminants, such as carbon monoxide.

SmokTite

A spray-on ceramic coating that seals and insulates the chimney’s smoke chamber with a smooth, seamless heat-resistant surface. It improves airflow, reduces creosote buildup, and repairs masonry damage.

ThermoCrete

A durable spread-on liner that hardens into a heat-resistant ceramic surface, instantly insulating the flue and interior masonry walls. It seals holes and cracks, strengthens the chimney structure, and increases its efficiency, making it an excellent solution for restoring damaged liners.

RainTite

A premium, vapor-permeable waterproofing solution designed to protect chimneys and other masonry surfaces from moisture. It bonds into the masonry, repelling rain, snow, and ice to prevent damage to the masonry that could increase the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

EverCrown

A spreadable compound used to repair and restore damaged chimney crowns. Applied like cement, it forms a durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant shield that protects the top of the chimney from the elements and prevents moisture from seeping into the structure.

Don’t Get Burned: Fireplace Safety Tips

Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your fireplace remains a safe and enjoyable part of your home. Check the boxes to identify areas where you can improve fireplace safety in your home.

• Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned EVERY year.
• Use a fire screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping an open hearth.
• Only burn firewood. Never burn trash, painted wood, or cardboard.
• Ensure the damper is fully open before lighting a fire in the fireplace.
• Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it is completely extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.

Where to Buy Approved Fire Prevention Products Near Me

Approved Industries is a leading provider of advanced ceramic coatings designed to reduce the risk of chimney fires and exposure to harmful contaminants, including toxic carbon monoxide exhaust. If you’re a hearth dealer or a chimney sweep interested in enhancing your services by becoming an authorized installer, or if you’re a homeowner seeking a certified installer, we invite you to contact Approved Industries today.