Reminder not to throw lithium-ion batteries away after garbage truck fire

TRENTON, Mich. (FOX 2) - Trenton firefighters are reminding people to not throw away lithium-ion batteries after a garbage truck fire believed to be sparked by a battery.

Lithium-ion batteries are used in numerous devices, including cell phones, laptops, power tools, rechargeable toys, e-bikes, vape devices, and some greeting cards. 

When these batteries are damaged after they are thrown away, they can overheat and ignite. These types of fires are difficult to extinguish because of the excessive heat and chemical reactions that occur when they burn.

If you have an old or damaged lithium battery:

• Do not place them in your household trash or recycling bin. 
• Store them in a safe, dry location until they can be properly disposed of.
• Take them to an approved battery recycling or hazardous waste collection site.

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