Johnson County urges residents to recycle lithium batteries, not toss them in trash or recycling

Staff member (Staff member) for Johnson County warned residents that damaged lithium batteries can start fires and urged using designated collection locations rather than regular trash or recycling.

County staff said lithium batteries—found in cell phones, laptops, drills, power tools and rechargeable vacuums—“when damaged, can cause serious fire in your home, trash can, or even in a trash or recycling truck.” The staff member told residents, “Don't throw them in the trash, don't throw them in your recycle bin, because they're a fire hazard.”

The county advised that Johnson County residents may drop off any type of battery, including lithium batteries, for free by appointment only at the Johnson County Household Hazardous Waste Facility. The announcement also listed the Olathe household hazardous waste facility, participating home improvement stores and the website recyclespot.org as additional recycling options. The speaker closed with the appeal, “Be safe, charge, smart, and help us prevent fires in our community. Together, we can help keep Johnson County safe.”

The message was presented as guidance and a public-safety recommendation; no formal action or new ordinance was proposed or adopted during the announcement. Residents seeking disposal options were directed to schedule appointments at the county facility or consult recyclespot.org for local drop-off locations.