Lithium-ion Batteries Pose Fire Risks in Landfills

Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly found in devices and systems that the public and first responders use or interact with, becoming a critical component of daily life. According to the National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA) while these batteries provide an effective and efficient source of power, the likelihood of them overheating, catching on fire, and even leading to explosions increases when they are damaged or improperly used, charged or stored. 

Locally, when these batteries have been damaged or can no longer hold a charge, disposing of them requires some safe handling techniques at the Sheridan County Landfill. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, City of Sheridan Recycling & Solid Waste Coordinator Seliena Parker shared that lithium-ion batteries pose a major fire risk when discarded in typical household refuse. 

S. Parker 

According to the NFPA, lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. When that energy is released in an uncontrolled manner, it generates heat, which can turn certain internal battery components into not only flammable but also toxic gases.

Many items have small rechargeable batteries and the use and convenience of these items have become so commonplace, we often forget that the batteries can be hazardous. Not only do larger batteries, such as the batteries in e-bikes and computers pose a danger but smaller batteries powering items such as disposable vaping devices and cellular devices do as well. 

S. Parker 

The Sheridan City Landfill requests that residents call (307) 674-8461 to schedule an appointment for the disposal of all hazardous household waste. The City Landfill is located at 83 East Ridge Rd. The cost is free to all Sheridan County residents. Businesses (including non-profit and government agencies) are required to pay a fee.