Household Hazardous Waste Household Batteries Hazards Batteries burned in waste combustion facilities can release mercury or cadmium to the air and water, ultimately entering the food chain and posing health threats to people and the environment. Some may be built into rechargeable appliances.
NiCads contain cadmium, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested.
Lithium is reactive with water, and has caused serious fires. Handling Store in a secure, dry place out of the reach of children and pets. Button batteries can be swallowed because they are small and slippery. When storing rechargeable batteries for collection, keep in a vented, non-metal container. Rechargeable batteries should be placed individually in plastic bags before being stored together with other rechargeables.