The batteries are found in everyday items like power tools, smartphones and toys
Wake County Fire Services and Emergency Management is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign: “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It highlights how important it is to buy, charge and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.
“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful and convenient, and these days you can find them just about everywhere,” said Wake County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Don Mial. “I urge all residents to learn which devices in your home contain these batteries, and to follow the Buy, Charge and Recycle Safely approach to keep your family and our whole community safer.”
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day—smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, and toys, to name just a few—are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire or even explode.
Buy only listed products
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing laboratory on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
- Many products sold online and in stores may not meet the applicable product safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely
- Always use the charging cords that come with the product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging.
- If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Inspect your device and charging cord for any physical damage like dents, cracks or punctures before charging.
- Charge your device on a hard, dry, non-flammable surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed or on a couch.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly
- Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
- Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them.
- Some waste facilities and local retailers, such as home improvement stores, accept and recycle batteries.
- Wake County Solid Waste and local municipalities have several locations where you can safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries.
Residents dropping off batteries at a recycling facility should cover all battery ports with tape to help prevent fires. Hazardous waste facilities accept household waste only. No business waste will be accepted.
For more information about recycling batteries, visit call2recycle.org. For more on Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.
