Huntsville Fire & Rescue has vital info for National Battery Day you need to know
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Stop! Before you power up that electronic device… learn how Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) and others in the area are teaming up to educate the community about lithium batteries for National Battery Day on Friday, February 18.
Did you know?
In a world that runs on gadgets and technology, we all need a daily charge to live, work and play. And to get that essential charge, we rely heavily on batteries—many of which are lithium.
Cell phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, e-readers, pacemakers, children’s toys and even that e-cigarette you’re puffing on right now, most likely run on lithium batteries.
As much as we love and use these items, the batteries that make them work can be dangerous.
That’s why HFR, the Solid Waste Disposal Authority (SWDA) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the National Center for Explosives Training and Research have teamed up to educate the community about lithium battery safety. With National Battery Day on Friday, February 18, the timing is perfect.
“Lithium batteries power many common items we use each day. They’re rechargeable, have high energy density and pack a lot of power in a small space. While lithium batteries are generally safe to use, they can pose hazards in our homes, workplaces and community if used improperly.”
Howard “Mac” McFarlen, Chief, Huntsville Fire & Rescue
How to stay safe
According to Huntsville.gov, to avoid injury, death or environmental/property damage related to improper lithium battery use, you should follow these steps:
- Only charge lithium batteries on a hard, non-combustible surface. Charging on a bed, couch or other flammable surface can cause your device to overheat, resulting in injuries and fires.
- Stay safe by using chargers and cables approved by your device’s manufacturer.
- Always keep a close eye on your charging device in case of an unexpected fire.
- Never charge a lithium battery in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
Did you know lithium batteries can be recycled? Yep, but don’t just throw them in the recycling bin—that could cause a fire. To properly recycle them, visit SWDA’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 1055 A Cleaner Way, Huntsville, Alabama, 35805. The facility is open Monday-Friday from 7AM-5PM.
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