MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – On Tuesday, June 6, a potential fire was averted thanks to the swift actions of a garbage truck driver. Observing smoke emanating from the trash collected earlier that morning, the driver promptly dumped the load in a vacant parking lot at Wildwood Park. It was later discovered that a smoldering fire had been caused by a discarded Milwaukee Tool battery.
The incident highlights the severe fire hazards associated with improper battery disposal. The connection between both terminals of a discarded battery can create a circuit, generating heat and potentially sparking a fire.
Fire Chief Pete Fletty emphasized the importance of recycling batteries, stating, “The worst thing you can do is throw a battery in your garbage, especially a 9-volt, because that can lead to a home fire.”
To prevent fires and protect our environment, it is crucial to adopt responsible practices for battery disposal. Instead of throwing batteries in the garbage, it is recommended to recycle them. Many communities have dedicated recycling programs and drop-off locations for batteries. Local businesses, such as Batteries Plus Bulbs in Stevens Point, are often equipped to handle battery recycling.
Fletty added that garbage fires are not uncommon and often caused by batteries.
To properly dispose of batteries, find a recycling facility near you.
From the DNR:
To find a drop-off location in your area for rechargeable or other batteries:
- Visit Call2Recycle [exit DNR] or call 1-877-2-RECYCLE; many retailers participate in this non-profit program to recycle rechargeable batteries and have collection boxes in their stores.
- For electronics that contain batteries, find an electronics collection site or mail-back program registered with E-Cycle Wisconsin.
- Contact your local recycling program to see if they offer collection.
- Visit the Wisconsin Recycling Markets Directory [exit DNR].
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Author: News Desk
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