From remote controls to change TV channels, vapes to some junkies and other daily used batteries, everywhere. So, what happens when these used batteries become waste? Well, if not disposed of in a correct manner, they can be a hazard. Several incidents of fires have been reported from recycling centres across the country due to improperly disposed batteries, and two of those incidents have already taken place locally over the last two months.

Working with Scotland’s Fire and Rescue Service, East Ayrshire Council would like to join forces with them this Recycle Week to spread an important message: we all need to recycle batteries safely, especially those associated with household items such as vapes. Together, it wants communities to become aware of the potential risks and act quickly to take these precautions to safeguard themselves and others against fires caused by potentially hazardous products.

Why Batteries Matter
The issue arises when household batteries, especially those with lithium-ion, are placed in a normal waste container. Lithium-ion batteries are rather reactive. In case they get punctured or crushed, they might explode or catch fire. This has been what has been happening throughout the country and what happened twice at the Western Road Recycling Center:.

These are hazardous fires that have a lot of damage, and not only hurt the workers but also destroy property and sometimes even pollute the environment. That is why it becomes very important for everyone to understand how to safely dispose of batteries and items containing them.

The Safe Way to Dispose of Batteries
And how to dispose of your old batteries? Easy really. East Ayrshire Council is rolling out a new awareness campaign reminding residents how to safely dispose of batteries, and making sure the message really gets around-from bin lorry wraps to bin stickers!

Bottom line: Do not place used house batteries in your household rubbish or recycling bin. Take them out of the device you are powering and recycle them separately.
What to do with the old household batteries
Wrap them up in a small bag and place it on top of your recycling trolley for collection as part of your recycling.

If you do not have a recycling trolley, you can loosely tie the battery bag to the handle of your regular bin.

Alternatively, you can take your batteries to the nearby shop or supermarket where batteries are sold. Many shops and supermarkets have special containers for battery recycling and it is quite convenient.
There is a really useful tool online that lets you locate a recycling point in your immediate locality. Just pop to Recycle Now and enter your location-voila. You’ll get an instant list of places where you can safely recycle your batteries.

The Hidden Danger of Vapes
One of the most overlooked items that need safe disposal is vapes. Disposable vapes come in many trendy configurations but all use non-removable batteries. When incorrectly disposed of, this makes them a dangerous fire hazard. Other items cannot be recycled the same way by removing the battery first.

This is why vapes can never be thrown into household rubbish – or indeed in recycling. They must be taken to a recycling centre. Many retailers selling vapes also have a legal requirement to take used ones for safe disposal, so you can always return an old vape to the shop you bought it from.

Councillor Jim McMahon, spokesman for Housing, Transport, and Communities, wants residents to take this seriously. “It’s really important that we all dispose of domestic batteries and items that have lithium-ion batteries safely,” he says. “This is not just protecting us; it is protecting our whole community. Fires from the improper disposal of batteries are happening all over the country, and we have already seen two fires locally at the Western Road Recycling Center.”.

He pointed out that many do not also understand dangers of waste from improper vapes disposal. “Personally, from my experience, people don’t understand how dangerous it is to put vapes in general bins,” he added. “That’s why we work hard to raise awareness and encourage our communities to act responsibly.”

Rechargeable Batteries: A Better Choice
Another key message from East Ayrshire Council and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is that rechargeable batteries are less environmentally unfriendly and safer. Councillor McMahon further explains that using rechargeable batteries reduces the amount of spent batteries we have in the rubbish, and this is just more protective of the environment. It’s more economical too in the long term!

But if you do use ‘normal’, single-use batteries, please recycle them. Typically, all your old batteries should be kept separate from your normal rubbish and recycling, and brought to a suitable recycling drop-off facility.

A Word from Fire Safety Professionals
Also, handed over useful advice was Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Ayrshire Ian McMeekin : “Rechargeable batteries containing lithium-ion must always be recycled properly. If they’re thrown into regular household waste, they can catch fire or even explode, causing serious danger.”

Even Commander McMeekin emphasized that dealing with these batteries is very important throughout their entire life. “This begins with purchasing items from responsible retailers,” he said. “Always charge and store these products based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. And never charge or store them where you would need clear escape routes in case of a fire, like in bedrooms or hallways.”

Act Now!
Something as simple as fire safety touches our lives, and we have a role to play in keeping our communities safe. You are responsible for disposing of your batteries and vapes properly, not only to protect yourself but also others from fires that can harm people and damage the environment.

The next time you are reaching into the trash to throw an old battery or vape, step back and ask yourself: is that really worth risking? Take just a few seconds more, and you will be doing your part to keep everyone safe.