SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The rise of lithium-ion batteries has increased a fire threat to Northwest Arkansas recycling and waste programs, according to a news release.
The Northwest Arkansas Council, Benton County Solid Waste District and Boston Mountain Solid Waste District announced that the improper disposal of rechargeable batteries has caused fires in recent months in Rogers and Fayetteville.
Rechargeable batteries include:
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Cell phone batteries
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Vape pens
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Power tools
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Other electronic devices
“Before throwing any battery away, residents should take an extra moment to properly separate rechargeable batteries such as batteries found in cell phones, laptops, Roomba vacuums, cordless drills, hearing aids and many other devices,” said Wendy Bland, director of the Benton County Solid Waste District.
How to dispose of lithium-ion batteries in NWA
Hundreds of pounds of batteries are disposed of each month in the region’s recycling centers, on trash trucks and at disposal sites, according to the news release.
“Taking that time to prepare these batteries for safe disposal can help prevent an accidental fire,” Bland said. “If a rechargeable lithium-ion battery is crushed or broken, a fire can start spontaneously – including inside your home or car, inside a trash or recycling truck or inside a waste facility.”
Lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries can be placed individually into a plastic bag and be disposed for free at drop-off locations in Northwest Arkansas in the following areas:
