Recent Incidents Highlight the Danger
Last week, waste sites across Mecklenburg County caught fire four times. The cause, a surprising culprit: discarded lithium-ion batteries. The alarming events have prompted local leaders to raise awareness about the risks associated with these often-overlooked power cells. • Lithium-ion batteries can be hidden in plain sight: They are often gray or black in color and blend in with other recycling materials, making them difficult to identify. •
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- Medical gear and batteries are a common combination
- Unrecognized batteries can smolder for hours, even days, without notice
The Materials Recovery Facility on Amble Drive saw two fires in a span of a few days. A hidden battery sparked the flames when staff crushed medical equipment, highlighting the potential for unexpected ignition. Jeff Smithberger, Mecklenburg County Solid Waste Director, emphasized the importance of proper disposal methods.
“They are generally gray or black in color. They look like the rest of the recycling materials that come to us.”
At Foxhole Landfill, Monday brought double trouble. The day began with a massive car battery catching fire at 11:45 a.m. Hours later, someone attempted to destroy private data by smashing an iPad, leading to another emergency. A fourth blaze prompted a full site evacuation, with sprinklers kicking in to extinguish the flames.
| Site | Time | Incident |
|---|---|---|
| Materials Recovery Facility | 2-3 days prior | Medical gear and battery caused fire |
| Foxhole Landfill | 11:45 a.m. | Car battery caught fire |
| Foxhole Landfill | Later that day | iPad smashing caused fire |
| Foxhole Landfill | Later that evening | Incident prompted full evacuation |
Smithberger stressed the importance of educating the public on the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. “It’s dangerous, and we want people to understand those inherent dangers and to just take care of them the right way the first time so that we don’t have to worry about this.”
These power cells are often found in everyday items, including phones, tablets, tools, and vehicles. When damaged or exposed to air, they can burst into flames without warning. It is crucial to handle them with care and follow proper disposal methods. The county runs four special centers for safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries. Residents can find the locations and guidelines on the county’s website. To avoid the risks, follow these precautions:
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- Handle batteries with care and avoid crushing them
- Do not mix batteries with regular trash or recycling
- Dispose of batteries at designated centers
The first Monday crisis struck at 11:45 a.m. Three workers fought back the flames, but a fire blanket stopped the iPad incident by mid-afternoon. Evening brought another scare when a loader operator spotted a burning device. The latest fire hit the paper storage section hard, with water raining down from triggered sprinklers. After the chaos, crews fixed the sprinkler system, and work resumed. The incident serves as a reminder to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions. For more information, check the county’s waste site or ask staff directly about proper battery disposal methods. By taking the right steps, we can minimize the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
