🔋 Battery Safety: What You Need to Know

Lithium-ion batteries power our phones, laptops, tools, and even cars. But if handled or thrown away the wrong way, they can cause fires, explosions, or pollution. Keep yourself and your community safe by following these tips.

✅ DO: Safe Battery Handling

• 🏠 Store in a cool, dry place away from heat or sunlight

• 🚫 Keep out of reach of children

• 🔌 Use the charger that came with your device

• 📦 Tape battery ends or keep them in original packaging

• 👀 Check for damage before using

• ♻️ Take old or broken batteries to a drop-off or recycling site

• 🐾 Place swollen or damaged batteries in sand or kitty litter until they can be dropped off

❌ DON’T: Unsafe Battery Habits

• 🚯 Don’t throw in the trash or curbside recycling

• 🔥 Don’t crush, burn, or take apart batteries

• ⚡ Don’t let them touch metal objects like coins or keys

• ⏰ Don’t charge while you’re asleep or after they’re full

• 🗄️ Don’t store in junk drawers, hot cars, or near water

⚠️ Warning Signs of a Bad Battery

• 📈 Swelling or bulging

• 💧 Leaking fluid or strange smells

• 💨 Smoke, sparks, or heat that won’t go away

👉 If you see these signs, handle with care and bring the battery to a drop-off location right away.

🌍 Why Proper Disposal Matters

• 🔥 Fire danger: Batteries can ignite and burn for days

• ☣️ Toxic leaks: Chemicals can seep into soil and water

• ♻️ Recycling saves: Valuable metals can be reused

• ⚖️ It’s the law: Some states fine for unsafe disposal

Remember:

✨ “Avoid the Spark, Be Battery Smart.” ✨
Take your used batteries to the right place—never the trash!