Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries power many products we use every day, including phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, scooters and other rechargeable devices.
When used properly, these batteries are generally safe. Damaged batteries or batteries that are improperly charged, stored or disposed of can create a serious fire risk.

Know the Warning Signs

Stop using a battery or battery-powered device if you notice:

  • Swelling or a change in shape
  • Excessive or increasing heat
  • Leaking or corrosion
  • Hissing, popping or other unusual sounds
  • An unusual odor
  • Smoke or vapor

If a battery is smoking, burning or dangerously hot, move away from the area and call 911. Do not attempt to pick it up or move it.
If the battery is damaged or swollen but is not an immediate fire hazard, contact Scottsdale Solid Waste at 480-312-5600 for disposal guidance.

View the Battery Fire Prevention flyer (PDF)

Buy Safe

  • Purchase batteries and battery-powered products from reputable manufacturers and retailers.
  • Look for products tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
  • Use batteries and charging equipment designed for your device.
  • Do not modify batteries, chargers or battery-powered products.
Blue line-art car battery icon with a hangtag featuring an orange star quality seal.

Charge Safe

  • Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
  • Use the charger and charging cord designed for your device.
  • Charge devices on a hard, stable surface away from anything that can burn. Do not charge devices on beds, couches or pillows.
  • Keep charging devices away from exits and escape routes.
  • Stop charging a device if the battery becomes unusually hot, swells, changes shape or shows other signs of damage.
Orange power adapter icon with a lightning bolt and a blue charging cable attached.

Store Safe

  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage.
  • Keep batteries and battery-powered devices away from excessive heat, direct sunlight and combustible materials.
  • Avoid leaving battery-powered devices in hot vehicles for extended periods.
  • Do not continue using damaged, swollen or defective batteries.
Line-art battery storage organizer icon with six orange batteries in blue-outlined slots.

Dispose Safe

Batteries don’t belong in the bin.
Never place lithium-ion batteries or rechargeable devices in:

  • Trash
  • Recycling
  • Brush & Bulk piles

Batteries can be crushed or damaged during collection and processing, creating a fire risk for collection crews, vehicles and facilities.

Blue drop box icon with an orange battery recycling symbol on the front.

Fire

8401 E. Indian School Road
Witzeman Public Safety Building
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Last Updated: Oct 6, 2026