Improperly disposed batteries may be to blame for fires at Wisconsin recycling facilities

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says batteries that were not disposed of properly may be to blame for multiple damaging fires at Wisconsin recycling facilities in the last month. 

According to a news release from the DNR, many batteries -- especially powerful lithium-ion batteries found in many electronics -- can cause fires when not disposed of properly. These batteries hold a considerable charge even when they no longer provide enough energy to power the device, and when damaged, they can spark or heat up and cause a fire.

“It only takes one lithium-ion battery to cause a huge fire and put workers and fire crews at risk,” said Sarah Murray, DNR E-Cycle Wisconsin coordinator. “Recycling facilities that handle cans, bottles and paper are not designed to handle batteries and electronics. Paper, cardboard and other material can easily catch fire with a spark from a damaged battery or rechargeable device.”

The DNR is warning the public of the dangers of disposing rechargeable batteries, electronics and other materials that could cause a fire in trash or recycling bins. Some batteries, such as single-use alkaline batteries, are safe to put in the trash. But it’s important to understand your batteries and how to store and dispose of them.

“With so many devices in our homes powered by so many different shapes and types of batteries, we know it can be confusing,” Murray said. “We want to help everyone understand how to identify their batteries and where you can recycle batteries and electronics.”

The DNR encourages everyone to follow these tips:

• Be aware that some batteries and battery-powered devices can pose significant hazards if damaged or tossed in the trash. Learn about the different types of batteries you have and how to manage them. The DNR has a household battery recycling guide to help.
• Take used, rechargeable batteries to local collection sites. Check with battery retailers about their recycling programs or search for nearby sites through battery recycling organization Call2Recycle’s website or by calling 1-877-2-RECYCLE.
• Recycle old electronics through E-Cycle Wisconsin. Many small electronics can be recycled for free or traded in for credit or cash. Visit the DNR’s list of collection sites and free mail-back programs.
• Don’t put electronics or rechargeable batteries in trash or recycling containers. Most electronics are banned from landfills and incinerators, and they cannot be recycled at the same facilities that recycle plastics, glass and paper.
• When storing batteries for recycling, tape the terminals or put each battery in an individual plastic bag, which prevents batteries from accidentally sparking if terminals touch.
• Store damaged (swollen, bent, punctured or crushed) batteries or devices in sand or kitty litter and, if possible, contact the manufacturer or Call2Recycle for instructions.
• Do not try to remove non-removable batteries from devices, as this could damage the battery and cause a fire.

Note that businesses and institutions have special requirements to determine which types of batteries they have and manage batteries according to hazardous waste regulations.

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