CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Mecklenburg County fire officials are launching a safety campaign ahead of Fire Prevention Week, warning that improperly discarded rechargeable batteries have caused nearly 40 fires in local sanitation vehicles and waste facilities this year.
Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal Matt Bixler issued the warning in conjunction with the National Fire Protection Association’s annual safety week, October 4-10. This year’s national theme focuses on the growing fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, which power everyday items including cellphones, laptops, power tools, and e-bikes.
Local data shows the risk is hitting close to home. Since the beginning of the year, nearly 40 battery-related fires have broken out inside Mecklenburg County recycling centers, at the county landfill, and inside local trash and recycling collection trucks.
“Rechargeable batteries are part of our everyday lives, but a few simple habits can make a big difference in preventing fires,” Bixler said. “Something as simple as where and how you charge a device can help prevent a fire in your home.”
Lithium-ion batteries store large amounts of energy and can overheat, catch fire, or explode when crushed by garbage trucks or processed by recycling machinery. Consequently, authorities emphasize that rechargeable batteries should never be placed in standard curbside household trash or recycling bins.
Residents can drop off used rechargeable batteries for free at any staffed Mecklenburg County full-service solid waste center.
To prevent residential fires, fire officials recommend using charging cords approved by the device’s manufacturer and charging electronics only on hard, flat surfaces. Charging items on beds or couches can trap heat and trigger a fire.
Safety officials stated that consumers should immediately stop using any battery that becomes unusually hot, changes shape, leaks, develops an odor, o r makes popping and hissing noises.
Fire Prevention Week reinforces the year-round work of the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office. The office inspects schools and commercial buildings, investigates fires and helps educate the community about fire hazards and prevention.
“Fire prevention is about recognizing risks before something happens,” Bixler said. “Something as simple as where and how you charge a device can help prevent a fire in your home.”
Residents can find battery disposal locations and additional information at mecknc.gov/batteries.
