Facts on Damaged Batteries
What should you do with
damaged batteries?
Turning in your batteries is an essential step to keeping your family and community safe from dangerous battery fires. But did you know that damaged batteries require special handling?
Damaged batteries pose a whole
different level of danger
When a battery gets damaged, the likelihood that it could heat up, ignite, or explode increases. If you notice that a battery has been damaged, take these important steps:
Stop using the battery. If you notice that one of your gadgets has a damaged battery, stop using it immediately.
1
Remove the battery from flammable surroundings. If possible, carefully remove the battery from the item that it powers. Place it in a non-flammable container away from flammable materials.
2
Reach out to the manufacturer. Find the contact information for the company that manufactured either the damaged battery or the item that it powers. They should be able to provide clear instructions on how to safely dispose of it.
3
Contact your local waste removal agencies. Typically, hazardous waste collection sites will accept damaged batteries. Get in touch with your local waste removal agencies to learn which local facilities may accept damaged batteries.
4
Turn your batteries in. Once you’ve identified the safest way to dispose of your damaged battery, make a plan and turn it in. Remember, damaged batteries pose a greater level of risk than undamaged ones, so it’s important that you dispose of them as quickly and as safely as possible.
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