Frederick, Md. – In response to the increasing dangers posed by damaged or faulty lithium-ion batteries, Frederick County Government is launching an initiative to educate residents on safe handling and disposal practices. The Divisions of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) and Solid Waste and Recycling (DSWR) are collaborating to raise awareness during Fire Prevention Month and National Recycling Month, which both occur in November.
The partnership aims to equip the public with essential resources, including special disposal events for lithium-ion batteries and the introduction of the “Battery Brigade,” a group of trained hazardous material handlers and educators. A curbside pickup service for lithium-ion batteries and small electronics will also be available by appointment, along with social media educational content on safe battery disposal and handling. Additionally, the initiative will provide special storage kits for residents to safely store batteries until they can be properly disposed of, and a public service announcement will be shown throughout October at Warehouse Cinemas.
Lee Zimmerman, Director of the Division of Solid Waste and Recycling, emphasized the need for safer disposal methods, citing that improper disposal methods have contributed to roughly 5,000 battery fires in the waste stream, posing risks to both emergency responders and community infrastructure. “The public needs better solutions for battery disposal than throwing batteries in the trash or recycling,” Zimmerman stated.
Experts warn that while lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, they can become unstable over time. This instability can lead to a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway,” wherein the battery overheats and potentially ignites, creating hazards in homes and vehicles. Fire Chief Tom Coe pointed out that damaged batteries can ignite quickly, underscoring the importance of the county’s initiative to educate residents on safety measures.
For more information on the initiative or to schedule a curbside pickup of lithium-ion batteries, residents can visit the county’s dedicated website at www.FrederickCountyMd.gov/BeALionTamer.
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Read the original article at Frederick County Government