SPOKANE, Wash. — Once your lithium batteries turn old or become damaged, make sure you are keeping yourself and your family safe by disposing of them properly.
A lithium ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery used in many common items such as cell phones, electric toothbrushes and laptops.
They are generally safe to use. However, if they are damaged or mistreated, the batteries do have the potential to overheat, catch fire or explode.
In February, a major fire broke out at a lithium battery warehouse in Spokane’s Hillyard neighborhood. It took hours for the fire department to put out the flames and caused toxic gas to be released into the air.
According to Battery Smart Spokane, it is important to dispose of old or damaged lithium ion batteries properly to avoid any potential fire risk.
“Fires involving lithium-ion battery-powered devices have been increasing at an alarming rate and have resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities. When people store and charge their devices inside their homes, garages, or businesses, there is the potential for battery fires that lead to structure and vehicle fires,” says Battery Smart Spokane.
There are a number of free sites across the Inland Northwest that will take your old, damaged or unused lithium ion batteries off your hands.
Some of the locations include Cheney Recycling Center, Batteries Plus, Home Depot and Lowe’s.
To find the battery drop-off site nearest to you, click HERE.
For more information on how to safely charge, store and dispose of your lithium batteries, visit www.batterysmartspokane.com.
RELATED COVERAGE: Do you know how to properly handle your lithium ion batteries?
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