The City of Fairlawn is urging its residents to pay close attention to the safe disposal of lithium batteries in order to prevent potential fires. A recent incident involving a hoverboard and its battery, which were discarded incorrectly, has prompted the city to highlight the importance of proper disposal methods.
Fairlawn’s Andrew E. Sommbti Compactor/Recycling facility became the unintentional scene of a fire when a hoverboard with its battery was mistakenly placed in one of the bins. The compactor and the hoverboard caught fire as a result, highlighting the potential dangers of improperly disposing of lithium batteries.
It is worth noting that Fairlawn’s compactor does not accept lithium batteries. These batteries are considered hazardous materials and must not be placed in regular garbage or recycling bins. Instead, they should be taken to specific disposal sites for appropriate handling. Stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot, as well as the Summit ReWorks HHW facility, are equipped to handle the proper disposal of lithium batteries.
In addition to lithium batteries, alkaline batteries also require special disposal procedures. Residents can take their used alkaline batteries to Batteries Plus Bulbs in Montrose Centre, where they will be recycled accordingly.
By raising awareness about the proper disposal of lithium batteries, Fairlawn hopes to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of its residents. Remember, the correct disposal of batteries is not only a matter of environmental responsibility but also a crucial step towards preventing potential fire hazards. Let’s all take the time to dispose of batteries properly and help create a safer community for everyone.
FAQ Section
Q: What prompted the City of Fairlawn to highlight the importance of proper disposal methods for lithium batteries?
A: A recent incident involving a hoverboard and its battery, which were discarded incorrectly, caused a fire at the Andrew E. Sommbti Compactor/Recycling facility. This incident emphasized the potential dangers of improper disposal.
Q: Can lithium batteries be placed in regular garbage or recycling bins?
A: No, lithium batteries are considered hazardous materials and should not be placed in regular garbage or recycling bins.
Q: Where should lithium batteries be taken for proper disposal?
A: Specific disposal sites, such as Lowe’s and Home Depot stores, as well as the Summit ReWorks HHW facility, are equipped to handle the proper disposal of lithium batteries.
Q: What other batteries require special disposal procedures?
A: Alkaline batteries also require special disposal procedures. Residents can take their used alkaline batteries to Batteries Plus Bulbs in Montrose Centre for recycling.
Definitions
– Lithium batteries: Batteries that use lithium as their primary component for energy storage.
– Hoverboard: A self-balancing, two-wheeled electric vehicle.
– Compactor: A machine used to compress waste materials.
– Hazardous materials: Substances or articles that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when improperly handled or disposed of.
Related Links
– Lowe’s
– Home Depot
– Summit ReWorks
– Batteries Plus Bulbs
