In a followup to the article “Know the Hazards of Lithium-Ion Batteries,” published in the Questa del Rio News’ July issue, we want to provide you with details on how and where to safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries that have been damaged or have reached the end of their life span. This information was not available at the time of going to press last month.

The Taos County Solid Waste Administration can now accept lithium-ion batteries – IF community members follow these safety directions.

You need to prepare the batteries in one of two ways:
• Place each battery in a separate, sealable plastic bag (like a Ziploc bag) – OR
• Cover ALL metal contacts on the battery so they cannot touch another battery or any metal objects.
• When you get to the transfer station – give the prepared batteries to the attendant.

DO NOT DUMP THEM WITH OTHER TRASH.
• For everyone’s safety, let’s keep these batteries out of the landfill!

As a reminder, these are just some of the many devices that use lithium-ion batteries:
Cellphones, tablets, laptops, computers, e-readers (e.g. Kindle), Smart watches, smoke detectors, game controllers, power tools, vape pens, Bluetooth headphones, digital cameras, e-bikes, e-scooters, hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs), solar power storage systems, and more.

jona olsson is the Chief of the
Latir Volunteer Fire Department