City warns of battery disposal dangers after recent landfill fires
Fires at Spyhill and Shepard landfills highlight the risks of tossing batteries in garbage or recycling bins. Here's how to dispose of them safely.
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City of Calgary officials are warning residents about the serious dangers of improper battery disposal after recent fires at Spyhill and Shepard landfills were linked to batteries.
When crushed or damaged, batteries can spark fires or even explode, the city warns. Throwing batteries in garbage or recycling bins is dangerous and a growing problem at waste facilities.
The city recommends these steps before recycling batteries:
• Store batteries properly at home in their original packaging
• Tape the terminals with packing, duct, or electrical tape, keeping brand and chemistry labels visible
• Place them in a clear, sealable bag — AA, AAA, C, and D batteries can be grouped together
Residents should also recognize what counts as a battery-powered device. If it lights up, makes noise, or connects to Wi-Fi, it likely contains a built-in battery. This includes phones, tablets, vapes, e-cigarettes, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Batteries do not belong in blue, black, or green bins. Instead, drop them off at designated locations including Recycle Your Batteries Canada, household waste locations, and city Eco Centres. The city's website has a full list of drop-off sites.
The facts
What caused the recent fires at Calgary landfills?
Fires at Spyhill and Shepard landfills were linked to batteries that were improperly disposed of in garbage or recycling bins.
How should I prepare batteries before dropping them off?
Tape the terminals with packing, duct, or electrical tape while keeping brand and chemistry labels visible, then place them in a clear, sealable bag.
Where can I safely dispose of batteries in Calgary?
Batteries can be dropped off at Recycle Your Batteries Canada, household waste locations, city Eco Centres, and other designated sites listed on the city's website.
