‘Doesn’t Take Much To Cause A Spark’: Is There A Right Way To Dispose Of Dead Batteries? Former EMT Reveals What You Are Doing Wrong

A woman who was a fire department EMT for over 10 years has a fire safety tip: Don’t throw your used batteries in the trash.

In a viral TikTok, @themommyconfessionsss says, “I’m done with this battery. I’m just gonna throw it in the—no, I’m not. I’m not gonna throw it in the trash.”

She says this is because batteries, even dead ones, can start a fire in your trash can. She says that because of the positive and negative charges, if they make a connection with another battery, they can start a fire. “It doesn’t take much to cause a little spark,” she says.

She adds that you should also not throw away your batteries in the trash because it’s not allowed, “so you gotta put ‘em in a special container and dispose of them at a disposal center.”

As an added precaution, she takes tape and attaches it to both sides of the battery. She says tape or anything that can block the battery from connecting with another battery will do. She then places her old batteries in a glass jar and waits until it gets full to take it to the recycling center, since she says batteries should not go in your personal trash or a landfill.

‘Wow.. I’ve Almost Started A Lot Of Fires..’

In the comments section, viewers became concerned that they were storing and disposing of batteries dangerously their whole lives.

“I just throw them in our ‘battery bucket’ but now you got me seriously concerned,” one wrote. “I’m gonna have to tape them all now.”

A second wrote, “We almost had a fire in our junk drawer from this happening with button batteries! So scary! I ended up buying a battery storage container so I don’t have to worry about that!”

One commenter had good news for those who wish disposing of batteries was easier. They said, “Most common household alkaline batteries (like AA, AAA, C, and D) are generally considered non-hazardous and can be disposed of in the regular trash, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
However, it’s recommended to tape the terminals of 9-volt batteries to prevent accidental contact and potential fires.
Consider recycling alkaline batteries if your local municipality or a designated collection site offers it.”

How Should I Dispose Of Different Kinds Of Batteries?

According to Home Depot, the commenter is correct that “In most places, you can put alkaline batteries, such as AA, AAA and D batteries, in the trash.” However, the company notes that in California it is illegal to throw away any kind of battery.

The website also confirms @themommyconfessionsss’ warnings about the fire risk of batteries. It states, “Collect used household batteries in a container. A cardboard box or plastic tub is a safe option. Prevent any fire risk by taping 9-volt battery terminals before getting rid of them. You can use a piece of masking, electrical or duct tape.”

Home Depot notes that these batteries can be detrimental to the environment when thrown away and should be recycled when possible. “Alkaline batteries are not accepted at The Home Depot or at most places that offer battery recycling,” it says. “Instead of dropping off your alkaline batteries in person, you can mail order a recycling kit for them. Call2Recycle is one of the companies that offer mail-in battery recycling kits.” Importantly, these kits come with fees that vary depending on the recycling company and size of the batteries.

Don’t Throw Away Devices And Car Batteries, Either

Devices like laptops and cellphones often use lithium-ion batteries. These should absolutely not be thrown in the trash.

The EPA states that they should be disposed of at recycling or household hazardous waste collection points.

Home Depot adds, “These are accepted at Call2Recycle sites at The Home Depot. You can also drop off old laptop batteries to be recycled at some office supply stores.”

Button cell batteries, or coin batteries, which are often used in items like toys, watches, and remote car starters, contain silver and mercury and must be recycled. “You can take them to Call2Recycle drop-off sites, like those at The Home Depot. Watch repair shops may also take these batteries for recycling,” Home Depot says.

Finally, we have car batteries. They cannot be put in the trash or taken to the dump and they are not accepted at most battery recycling sites. Home Depot notes, “When you buy a new car battery, the store will often take your old battery. Even if you aren’t buying a battery, many auto retailers accept old car batteries. They will dispose of them properly. Your city or county may also offer car battery collection sites.”

BroBible contacted the TikToker via comment and direct message.