Lithium-Ion Battery Safety and Recycling

“Charge Smart. Stay Safe.”

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we rely on every day - from phones and tablets to power tools, e-bikes, and scooters. When used and charged properly, they are safe and efficient. However, when damaged, overcharged, or improperly disposed of, they can cause dangerous fires or explosions.

The Statesville Fire Department is proud to support the 2025 Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety,” by promoting safe battery use, charging, storage, and recycling. Through education and community partnerships, we aim to keep our homes and neighborhoods safe from lithium-ion battery hazards.

Statesville Fire Department (SFD) Station 1: Battery Recycling Drop-Off Site

Statesville Fire Station 1 (located at 822 Fifth Street, Statesville) now serves as The Battery Network, formerly Call2Recycle, Lithium-Ion Battery Collection Site. Residents can safely drop off rechargeable batteries for proper recycling through the Call2Recycle One Drum program.

Accepted Items

    • Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (from electronics, tools, e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices)
    • Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), nickel-zinc (Ni-Zn), and small sealed lead-acid (SSLA/Pb) batteries under 11 lb.

For those outside the Statesville district, visit The Battery Network website to find a convenient recycling center near you.

Note on Alkaline Batteries: Traditional alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt) may be disposed of in regular residential trash. These batteries no longer contain mercury and are primarily made of common metals like steel, zinc, and manganese, which pose no significant health or environmental risk during normal use or disposal.

Charging Batteries Safely

  • Only use manufacturer-approved chargers designed for your device.
  • Do not charge near exits or on soft surfaces (beds, couches, or under pillows).
  • Unplug once fully charged and avoid overnight charging.
  • Stop using any device or battery that is hot, swollen, or emitting an unusual odor.
  • For more safety tips, visit the NFPA Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Page here.

Buy Approved Products

Always purchase batteries, devices, and charging equipment tested by nationally recognized laboratories. Look for certification marks such as:

  • UL (Underwriters Laboratories) E
  • TL (Intertek Testing Services)

These marks ensure the product meets rigorous safety standards

Take Charge of Battery Safety

From the first sign of a problem, you could have less than one minute to escape a lithium-ion battery fire. 

But there are things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Watch this important video then prioritize these safety measures to Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety.

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