Recycling center refusing to take lithium batteries after fires
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The fire at Watson Recycling in Rochester, Minnesota on Feb. 26 resulted in no injuries and minimal equipment damage, but it highlighted the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries. Despite not accepting such batteries, one managed to get in to the center and caused the fire.
These batteries, common in various devices, pose both safety and environmental risks. Proper disposal is crucial, yet finding recycling options can be challenging for consumers. Olmsted County Hazardous Waste Facility accepts batteries up to 300 Watt hours, but larger ones must be taken elsewhere. The fire's scale underscores the need for public awareness and responsible disposal practices to mitigate future incidents.