The Importance of Properly Storing & Disposing Lithium Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries supply power to many kinds of devices including smart phones, laptops, e-scooters and e-bikes, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and even cars. If not used correctly, or if damaged, these batteries can catch on fire or explode.

Unfortunately, there are more and more dangerous incidents being reported involving explosions or fires caused by improper storage and disposal of household items with Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) batteries. To help prevent these types of explosions, Li-Ion batteries should be stored in well-ventilated, dry areas, away from direct sunlight, heat sources and water, and kept isolated from other batteries.
 

Unusable batteries are considered hazardous waste and must be properly recycled and NEVER placed in the curbside trash, recycling, or organics carts! If batteries are not discarded properly, they can potentially explode and cause a fire in a collection cart, truck, or in a disposal facility when crushed. Residents are encouraged to use the designated bins inside City Hall to safely dispose of batteries. For more information, visit edcodisposal.com, under the Resource Center Tab and go to Special Items Disposal.

The problem

• These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space.
• Sometimes batteries are not used the right way; batteries not designed for a specific use can be dangerous.
• Like any product, a small number of these batteries are defective. They can overheat, catch fire, or explode.

Safety Tips

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Only use the battery that is designed for the device.
• Put batteries in the device the right way.
• Only use the charging cord that came with the device.
• Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged. 
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible.
• Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).
• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.