PINELLAS COUNTY , Fla. — Pinellas County leaders are making an important reminder for the rest of hurricane season.
County waste officials are reminding people to properly dispose of anything with lithium batteries they no longer use.
According to state officials, after hurricanes Helene and Milton, there were more than 80 local fires directly attributed to the batteries, which are found in everything from cell phones to lawn equipment.
The batteries can burst into flames if they’re punctured, damaged, or come into contact with salt water.
Pinellas County officials recommend looking around for any battery powered items that aren’t being used anymore.
And getting rid of them before they become a problem.
“We’re certainly not seeing as many rechargeable batteries coming into our facility as we know that are out there,” said Jasmine Scott, the county’s environmental outreach specialist. “And your home, I mean, you can look around your home and think of at least ten things that are rechargeable, including your electric toothbrush.”
The public can return lithium batteries for free at the household hazardous waste facility in St. Pete.
The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection program is for Pinellas County households only. Businesses, hobbyists, haulers, and nonprofits should visit the Business Collection Events page.
Erica Riggins
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