How to stop a folder uploading in NodeJS

Using Docker with a nodeJS website.
I have a directory that people upload photos to (public/assets/uploads).
When I upload a change to the live server, then it deletes the files on the live server and replaces with them with what I have locally.

I would like to some how stop the folder public/assets/uploads from uploading or being destroyed when I re-deploy to docker after making a change.

Not sure if this is even possible, if it is, could someone please explain what steps I would need to do.
I am not using the publish button (perhaps I should be)

It would be appreciated.

TIA

@Apple lol sorry was in a rush to get out to a meeting hopefully you get it now