While space heaters and ovens are typically the most common cause of household fires this time of year, Emporia Solid Waste Supervisor Keith Senn says there is another item that residents need to be cautious of, especially with Christmas now here.
Lithium batteries have become an increasing concern for recycling centers across the nation including in Emporia. During an interview on KVOE’s Morning Show Tuesday, Senn noted lithium batteries have led to more than one fire situation both at the Lyon County Transfer Station and in equipment.
Thankfully, Senn says the fires that have developed have been relatively minor noting that lithium batteries can be extremely volatile if damaged comparing them to fireworks. Lithium batteries are commonly found in most technological items including cameras, cell phones, laptops, tablets and electric vehicles.
While Senn says it takes quite a lot of effort to damage a battery, once they are compromised they will burn quickly and cannot be extinguished by water alone.
Senn says lithium battery fires can also be put it out by using a fire extinguisher, sand or baking soda and take care while doing so as they can burn up to 1,500 degrees.
Senn’s comments on lithium batteries came as part of a larger interview regarding the city’s residential trash pickup schedule with the Christmas holiday falling on Wednesday. Senn says residential pickup will not be altered this week as pickups do not regularly occur on Wednesdays.
If you are wondering what to do with your lithium batteries once they have reached their end of life Senn says residents can take them to the Lyon County Noxious Weeds Department at 3000 West South Avenue where they are trained to properly dispose of them.
