You should think twice before you throw your batteries in the trash, especially as you bring new toys into the home this holiday season. While the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says it is still ok to throw traditional alkaline batteries into the trash, the same cannot be said about lithium ion and other rechargeable batteries. The batteries contain toxic chemicals that, if burned or landfilled, can cause long-lasting environmental effects. They also pose a fire risk as they can become ablaze or even explode if crushed or punctured. That was the case over the weekend when a garbage truck near Brussels had to dump its load out onto the road so the Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department members could put the fire out. The cause of the fire was attributed to a rechargeable battery pack for a small hand tool. Discovering those items in garbage piles is a common occurrence for Riverview Transfer Station owner John Mastalir, who often has to pull small toys, cell phones, and other battery-powered items out to avert the risk. He says he would rather take the items for free and absorb the cost himself rather than risk his equipment and the safety of his employees.

The DNR also provides additional resources for you if you have lithium-ion or other rechargeable batteries you have to dispose of in your home or business.  

Picture courtesy of Pixabay and user Alexei_other