Did You Know Rechargeable Batteries Have A Hidden Danger

If you are like me, you have many items in your house and even your car that contain a battery. Some are single-use batteries, others are rechargeable. Even the car in your garage these days may run on a battery.

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What Should You Do with Old Batteries

Did you know that a battery could start a fire. It can happen in the garbage truck or even in the garbage recycling center. So, like me too you might wonder what to do with all these different types of batteries once you are done with it. Can you throw it away? Do you have to recycle it? How do I not start a fire?

These are all good questions, so let me start with a warning that was issued this week from the City of Kingston Fire Department. They were called to a fire this week that was caused by a battery being disposed of improperly. They are asking people to please be aware of proper battery disposal.

Where Should You Throw Away Old Batteries?

If you aren't sure how to throw away a battery, be sure to find out. One source is Call2Recycle.org. They have a lot of information specifically for people trying to dispose of batteries for everything from toys to household appliances, and even power tools. You can also check with your trash provider. Or Look Check Out this list of places that take batteries.

The reason for properly disposing of batteries is due to their tendency to cause fires. Which brings me back around to the reason I am sharing all of this with you. Early this week, the City of Kingston Fire Department was called to a fire at a commercial recycling facility in Kingston, New York.

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Rechargeable batteries—including lithium-ion batteries commonly found in laptops, phones, power tools, and other everyday devices—are generally VERY SAFE during normal use. However, when damaged or improperly disposed of (especially when crushed or compacted), they can pose a significant fire risk. (City of Kingston Fire Department via Facebook)

Basically, rechargeable batteries can easily cause fires and should never be disposed of in the trash or even curbside recycling bins. For more information about how to safely recycle rechargeable batteries, visit: https://dec.ny.gov/.../rec.../rechargeable-battery-recycling.