Li-ion Battery Fires Unfairly Cost Trash & Recycling Operators Over $1.2 B/yr.
Lithium batteries range in size, but they are powerful. Lithium is a very reactive element and when
damaged, can pose fire and explosion risks (even if it may be a “dead” battery).
Sometimes trash truck drivers do not notice the fire before it is too late, and the only response
would be to exit the vehicle. When this happens, the truck driver’s life is in serious jeopardy as
well as the lives of others on the road, and your property. Landfill operators and recycling processing facilities staff can also be in danger when lithium batteries are placed in trash OR recycling bins.
NEVER PUT RECHARGEABLE & LITHIUM BATTERIES IN YOUR TRASH OR RECYCLING BIN!
PLEASE bring your rechargeable and lithium batteries to a Household Hazardous Waste event.
Register online:
www.chestercountyswa.org/121/UpcomingHousehold-Hazardous-Waste-Event
Lithium Battery Safety Tips:
DO DO NOT
Keep batteries and devices stored at room temperature.
Charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
Store batteries away from anything flammable. Charge a device unattended.
Always use the manufacturers charging cord to charge the battery or device.
Place loose batteries in drawers or containers that contain other metal objects (coins, paper
clips, screws).
Watch for signs of failure – overheating, discoloration, swelling, odor.
Place in direct sunlight or leave in a hot vehicle.
Bring battery to a Household Hazardous Waste collection event or check the Call2Recycle website to
find a drop off location closest to you: www.call2recycle.org/locator
DO NOT place lithium batteries in your household trash or recycling containers.
If your battery is leaking or bulging, place it in a metal or non-flammable container and surround
it with sand or kitty litter. Bring it to a Household Hazardous Waste collection event or check the
Call2Recycle website.
SAFETY FIRST!