Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries must not go in the trash or into recycling containers. Lithium batteries need to be kept separate from other batteries and recycled materials.

Possible sources of lithium batteries include greeting cards, talking cards, external cell phone batteries, hoverboards, remote vacuums, power tools, earbuds, and other small electronic devices.  All these seemingly small devices can be damaged and cause fires in recycling or solid waste containers, trucks, compactors, etc.

Lithium Batteries need to have the terminals taped with non-conductive material so that the terminals do not contact other battery terminals. Examples of non-conductive materials:

  • Electrical tape
  • Packing tape
  • Duct tape

* If batteries are going to be sent to a recycler, try not to cover the entire battery so that sorters can determine the type.

If the battery is reactive, place the battery in a non-combustible container, such as a metal container, away from any combustible materials. While doing this, please use caution and only move reactive batteries if it is safe to do so. The non-combustible container should also contain completely dry sand. It is important not to store lithium batteries in wet environments.

If a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery overheats, hisses, or bulges, immediately move the device away from flammable materials and place it on a non-combustible surface. If possible, remove the battery and put it outdoors away from any other materials, and allow it time to self-extinguish. You may also put the device outside and keep it there for at least 6 hours. Contact the local fire department immediately and ask for advice on how to proceed.

A small Li-ion fire can be handled like any other combustible fire. For best results, use a foam extinguisher, Carbon Dioxide (CO2), ABC dry chemical, powdered graphite, copper powder, or soda (sodium carbonate) to extinguish the fire. Halon is also used as a fire suppressant.

During thermal runaway in a Li-ion battery, the temperature can quickly rise to 500°C (932°F), at which point the cell catches fire or explodes. This is known as “venting with flame”; however, the term “rapid disassembly” is preferred in the battery industry. The exhausting gases are carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, as well as gases formed by the vaporizing electrolyte.

A large Li-ion fire, such as an electric vehicle (EV) may need to burn out, as water is ineffective. Water with copper material can be used, but this may not be available and is costly for fire departments. When encountering a fire with a lithium-metal battery, only use a Class D fire extinguisher. Lithium-metal contains lithium that reacts with water and will make the fire worse. 

CAUTION: Do not use a Class D fire extinguisher to put out other types of fires; make certain regular extinguishers are also available. With all battery fires, allow ample ventilation while the battery burns itself out.

This Page Last Updated: January 29, 2025 at 1:13 PM