Whittlesea council is calling for residents to dispose of batteries and other electronic waste (e-waste) responsibly this festive season.
In a statement, the council reminded people that in Victoria it is illegal to dispose of batteries and e-waste in kerbside bins.
Whittlesea mayor Lawrie Cox said it is important to stay vigilant about battery safety.
“It only takes a single battery to spark a dangerous fire… [that] puts our staff, the community and critical infrastructure at risk,” Cr Cox said.
According to the council, in the three months before December, three fires inside waste collection vehicles were caused by batteries.
“This is a timely reminder as families unwrap new toys and gadgets over the holiday season, we know many of these items need batteries to keep the fun going.
“If it lights up, makes a sound or moves, it has a battery and it never belongs in your kerbside bin.”
The council said fire danger is not the only risk, as batteries can also leak toxic chemicals into soil and groundwater in landfills, harming the environment.
“Recycling your old batteries properly is a small action that makes a big difference.”
Residents are encouraged to drop off used batteries at a designated battery collection facility or bin.
To find the right place for your used battery or e-waste visit https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/Environment/Recycling/A-Z-guide-to-waste-and-recycling
