Credit Bluewater Recycling Association
The Bluewater Recycling Association is reminding residents to safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries after several dangerous incidents in recycling facilities across Ontario, including locally.
The association says lithium-ion batteries can easily start fires when they are crushed, punctured, or compacted during collection and sorting. These fires can ignite without warning and spread quickly, putting recycling workers, drivers, equipment, and nearby communities at risk.
Officials explain that battery-related fires do not always start right away. In some cases, batteries can smoulder inside recycling trucks or sorting machines before flames appear. By the time a fire is visible, serious damage may already be done.
Residents are being reminded that any item that plugs in, lights up, or needs to be charged should never be placed in recycling bins. This includes items such as vapes, e-cigarettes, power tools, rechargeable toys, electronics, and battery packs.
Lithium-ion batteries must be taken to an approved battery drop-off location. They should never go in recycling or garbage bins. The Bluewater Recycling Association says proper disposal helps protect workers and keeps recycling systems safe.
You can find a nearby battery drop-off location by visiting recycleyourbatteries.ca and entering your postal code.
