Household Hazardous Waste

Battery Fire Prevention

Batteries are one of the top causes of fires at Hartland Landfill.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, found in phones, laptops, power tools and e-bikes, are the most common fire starters. While these batteries are safe when used and stored properly, they can become dangerous if thrown in household garbage or recycling.

At the landfill batteries can be crushed or punctured by heavy equipment, which can cause them to overheat and catch fire.

Fire prevention starts with you, and it’s easier than you might think. 

Battery Examples 

Image
photo of a person using a battery powered drill

Battery packs in power tools like this drill.

Image
photo of a white e-bike

E-mobility batteries like this e-bike.

Image
laptop and cell phone on a table

Personal electronics like cell phones and laptops.

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)

HHW is any waste from your home that you consider to be dangerous or of which you are unsure. It includes any leftover household product that is marked flammable, corrosive, explosive or poison. Common examples are propane tanks, pesticides, varnishes, paints, chemical cleaners, and batteries.

If disposed of incorrectly, materials can cause fires in collection vehicles and at the landfill, harm aquatic life, destroy sensitive ecosystems and pollute recreational sites and water supplies.  

Was this page helpful?

Feedback details

You will NOT receive a reply because this form is anonymous. To get an answer to a question, email us at webdesk@crd.bc.ca

Abstract teal and navy blue dragonfly illustrations.

Territorial Acknowledgement

The CRD conducts its business within the Territories of many First Nations, all of whom have a long-standing relationship with the land and waters from time immemorial that continues to this day. Statement of Reconciliation