Metro Waste Authority in Mitchellville, Iowa, is taking steps to educate the public about the dangers of improperly disposed lithium-ion batteries. Recently, more than 100 families toured the facility to learn about what happens to their garbage after it leaves the curb.

Lithium-Ion Battery Fires on the Rise

According to Kayla Burkett, Metro Waste Authority’s vice president of public affairs, the landfill has experienced 20 fires so far this year, with nearly all of them likely caused by lithium-ion batteries. The problem isn’t that people are being careless, but rather that many are unaware of the presence of these batteries in everyday objects, such as phones, headphones, massage guns, and power tools.

Burkett emphasized that proper disposal of these batteries is crucial to prevent fires. The authority has designated drop-off sites where people can take their lithium-ion batteries for safe disposal. By doing so, individuals can help prevent fires and protect the facility and its staff.

Metro Waste Authority is working to educate the public about the importance of proper disposal methods. The authority believes that most people want to do the right thing, but they need to understand what is dangerous and what is not.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.