Why Tossing Batteries in Trash Sparks Big Fire Fears!

Batteries are a common part of technical devices we use every day, like toys, headphones, vapes, and car key fobs. But many people do not realize that throwing batteries in the regular trash or recycling bin can be very dangerous. In Guernsey, batteries have become one of the main reasons for fires at waste and recycling centers. Over the past four years, there have been about 40 separate fire incidents caused by hazardous items, including batteries, at waste facilities on the island.

When batteries are mixed with other rubbish and sent to waste centers, they can get crushed or punctured by heavy machinery. This is especially risky with lithium-ion batteries, which are found in many modern devices. If a battery is damaged, it can spark and start a fire. Fires at waste centers are dangerous for workers, visitors, and the environment. That is why it is so important to keep batteries out of your regular waste.

Faye Grime, the director of Island Waste, says that batteries should never be thrown in the trash. She explains that if a battery ends up in the waste, it is an immediate fire risk. The battery can spark, causing something called thermal runaway, which can quickly lead to a fire. Grime says it is very important for everyone to check their rubbish carefully and make sure there are no batteries inside before throwing it away.

So, how should you get rid of batteries safely? There are special collection points for batteries at Household Waste and Recycling Centers and at other sites around the island. If you are not sure where to take your batteries, you can call the waste company for advice. Once the batteries are collected, they are sent off the island to the UK, where they are recycled properly.

Some items have hidden batteries that people might not notice. For example, vapes have become a big problem because they contain batteries, but not everyone knows this. Other items like car keys, toys, and small household appliances often have batteries inside. Before throwing anything away, check for a battery symbol on the item. If you find one, remove the battery and put it in the battery collection bin. If you cannot remove the battery, take the whole item to the recycling center.

There are other dangerous items that should never be thrown in the rubbish, such as gas canisters, fireworks, and flares. These items can also cause fires if not disposed of properly. The waste company can help you find the right way to recycle these items safely.

By being careful with how you throw away batteries and other dangerous items, you can help prevent fires and keep your community safe. Always check your rubbish before you throw it out, and use the proper collection points for batteries and hazardous items. If you are not sure what to do, ask for help from your local waste company. Together, we can protect people, property, and the environment from the dangers of battery fires.