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Montgomery County Reminds Residents to Dispose of Batteries Properly to Prevent Trash Fires

For Immediate Release: Thursday, September 19, 2024

The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is reminding everyone that proper disposal of batteries is essential. No types of batteries should be placed in regular trash.  

Improperly disposed batteries can cause fires in trash cans, on trash trucks and at the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station. This applies to all batteries including:  

  • Dry cell and alkaline batteries 
  • Lithium batteries 
  • Lithium-ion batteries 
  • Nickel-cadmium batteries 
  • Lead acid (vehicle) batteries 
  • Uninterruptible power supplies (personal and network) 
  • Tool batteries 
DEP fire safety
“How we dispose of batteries can have a big impact on our safety and environment,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “When batteries end up in the regular trash, they can cause dangerous fires in trash cans, trucks and at our facilities. That is why we are asking everyone to take a little extra care and use the proper drop-off points for battery disposal. It is a simple step that protects our community and keeps our waste systems running smoothly.” 

The household hazardous waste drop-off area at the Transfer Station accepts all batteries, including alkaline batteries, for disposal. Lead acid and/or vehicle batteries can also be dropped off at no charge. 

Many retail locations accept batteries for disposal, although some may charge for disposal service.   

“Responsible battery disposal not only keeps our environment cleaner but also reduces the risk of accidental fires,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “Please remember to use extra caution when disposing of batteries. This includes larger batteries that power vehicles, scooters and lawn equipment which can cause fires if not handled properly.” 

The safest methods of transporting batteries are to protect terminals by placing each battery individually into a plastic bag or by taping the ends with masking tape or another non-metallic tape. When carrying small batteries in your pocket, do not mix them with coins and house keys.  

Through the County’s Ecowise Program, businesses and organizations can drop off batteries for a small fee from 1-5 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Shady Grove Transfer Station. Businesses and organizations can register using Ecowise Online Application.  

A video in English and Spanish explains how to properly dispose of batteries. Visit the DEP website for more information. 

Subscribe to My Green Montgomery for news and updates for living a green life in Montgomery County. Follow DEP on Facebook, Instagram and X.  

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Release ID: 24-417
Media Contact: Cindy Pena 202-875-1563
Categories: Environment