Battery-related fires pose a significant and unnecessary safety risk to waste management employees and first responders. During transportation or processing, used batteries can explode and create destructive fires. In 2023, Rumpke faced 98 battery fires at its recycling facilities and 75 truckload fires.

Especially dangerous are Lithium-ion batteries, which power rechargeable devices like cell phones, power tools and laptops. The chemicals within these batteries are highly flammable and are considered hazardous household waste.

The easiest way to prevent battery-related fires is to avoid putting used batteries or electronics into your trash or curbside recycling bin. Luckily, several free disposal outlets for batteries exist in this area. The Staples store, located on Beechmont Avenue, accepts single-use and rechargeable batteries for free recycling (excluding automotive batteries), in addition to many other electronics. A complete list of acceptable items can be found HERE.