Focus: Lithium-Ion Batteries
Indian River County (IRC), FL — “Charge into Fire Safety” is the theme of this year’s National Fire Prevention Week. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) strives to educate everyone on tips for prevention of fire hazards.
Each year, the IRC Board of County Commissioners participate in education and awareness by passing a proclamation as they did at their latest regular meeting on September 23, 2025. In keeping with this year’s theme, the proclamation urges residents to follow three key calls to action: Buy only batteries listed for the device, charge batteries safely, and recycle them responsibly to prevent battery-related fires.
“We take these batteries for granted; lithium-ion batteries are in nearly every home today,” said Fire Marshall Richard Marini. Most electronics used in homes daily, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, and toys, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. “The batteries generally operate safely but they can overheat, catch fire, or explode if damaged, misused, or improperly charged,” added Marini.
“Disposing of lithium batteries properly is critical to prevention of fires both at home, in waste management pick-up vehicles, and in our landfills,” said Dave Johnson, Emergency Services Director for IRC. “There have been 5 fires over the last 5 years at the County’s landfill directly related to lithium batteries.”
The Board of County Commissioners urges all citizens to be mindful that properly disposing of lithium batteries could save lives and property. Indian River County citizens may drop their used batteries at any of the 5 Customer Convenience Centers or at the Main County Landfill.
