Firefighters warn against ‘very dangerous’ place to charge phone

In 2023, an Arizona middle schooler was almost killed in a fire, started by her cellphone that sparked deadly flames while powering up overnight in her bed.

Now, firefighters are reminding smartphone users to practice safe charging habits, so you and your device don’t go up in smoke.

Keep reading to learn the risks of improper charging!

A recent study reports that 62% of people fall asleep with their phones charging overnight, preparing for full battery life the next day.

But, the Montgomery County Fire Department warns against this “very dangerous habit.” “No matter how much you LOVE your phone – please DON’T sleep with it!” the Maryland Fire Department shares in a tweet. “[Did you know] that your charger can start a fire? Never leave phones charging on a bed, under a pillow or on any flammable surface. (tell your [kids] who are always on their phones).”

Arizona’s Faustina Feeley was one of those kids who kept her charging phone in bed with her while she slept.

In May 2023, the middle school student was recharging her body in slumber when a frightening incident jarred her from her deep sleep.  

The girl was shocked when just before 7 a.m., she opened her eyes and saw flames consuming her bed.

“I woke up and heard this like pop sound,” Faustina told 12 News, an NBC affiliate. “I looked down and I saw that there [were] flames.”

Seeing that her bed was on fire, the young girl bolted out of her room and started shouting for her parents.

⚠️VERY…DANGEROUS
No matter how much you LOVE your phone — please DON'T sleep with it!#DYK that your charger can start a fire? Never leave phones charging on a bed, under a pillow or on any flammable surface. (tell your #kids who are always on their phones). #firesafe @mcfrs pic.twitter.com/QIXLF8mwb0

— MontgomeryCo(MD)Fire (@mcfrs) November 6, 2023

“I heard Faustina in the hallway say my bed [is] on fire!” said Faustina’s dad, Jim Feeley, who quickly responded to the growing fire.

“You could see the mattress and how it just consumed the mattress,” said Feeley, adding that he was able to douse the blaze before anyone was hurt.

According to the news outlet, Faustina had gone to sleep, her phone charging on the bed next to her.

“The case started melting,” Faustina said of her charred phone. “It’s like ripped in half.”

Sharing some advice from her experience, Fuastina adds, “Put it like somewhere away from your bed not by like any cloth material where they can catch on fire.”

Safe charging

Improper charging can pose fire risks if not handled correctly but with a few mindful steps, you can avoid potential hazards and keep your device (and yourself) safe.

Use quality chargers and cables: Always use the charger and cable that came with your phone or buy certified replacements from reputable brands and don’t be tempted by discount store chargers. Cheap, off-brand chargers may lack safety features, leading to overheating, short circuits, and, in worst cases, fires. Avoid counterfeit chargers and look for certifications like CE or UL, which indicate that the charger has passed safety standards.

Avoid charging overnight: Plugging your cellphone in overnight may seem convenient, but extended charging can lead to overheating if your device lacks a “smart charging” feature. Leaving your phone to charge for extended periods puts unnecessary stress on the battery, increasing heat buildup. Instead, try charging during the day, and unplug it once it’s sufficiently charged.

Rest device on a hard, flat surface: Charging on flammable materials, like a bed, sofa, or pillow, can trap heat and prevent the device from cooling down properly. For safe charging, place your cellphone on a hard, flat surface – like a desk or table – with good airflow. A well-ventilated spot keeps your device cooler, reducing the risk of overheating.

Regularly inspect your charging cable and port: Frayed or damaged charging cables are a common fire hazard. If you notice any wear and tear, replace the cable immediately. Also, check that your phone’s charging port is clean and free from debris to ensure a secure connection.

Don’t use your phone while charging: Using your phone while it’s charging causes it to work harder, which generates more heat. This can be dangerous, especially with high-intensity activities like gaming or video streaming, as they add additional strain to the battery. If possible, let your phone rest while it charges to avoid overheating.

By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure that your phone charges safely without the risk of fire. Practicing mindful charging habits protects your device, your battery, and, most importantly, your safety.

Please share your thoughts with us and then share this story so you can let your friends know about the risks involved with improper charging!