The City of Lethbridge is reminding residents to keep batteries out of their waste collection carts. (Photo 9244445 © Huguette Roe | Dreamstime.com)

By Joel Mendelson

City highlights dangers of improperly disposing batteries

Jan 9, 2024 | 11:01 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The City of Lethbridge Waste and Environment department would like to remind the public to keep batteries out of waste collection carts.

This reminder was issued because in the past week, two fires have been ignited in collection trucks because lithium-ion batteries were not properly disposed of.

Batteries, along with any device which uses/contains batteries such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets are not accepted in the garbage, recycling or compost carts. When not disposed of properly, the batteries can come into contact with metal, which can lead to fires in either the trucks or facility.

Batteries and electronics can be dropped off at the Waste & Recycling Centre’s electronics collection area. Several retailers around the city also accept used and unwanted electronics.

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Officials said the storage and disposal of household batteries is crucial in preventing fires. Batteries should be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight, heating equipment, or anything that can catch fire.

When collecting batteries for recycling, officials suggest placing a piece of tape over the positive (+) end to prevent it from coming into contact with metal or batteries.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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