To Help Prevent Trash Fires, Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection Asks Residents to Take Extra Care Before Throwing Materials into Trash

Even seemingly harmless household batteries, such as AA, AAA or button cell batteries, can contribute to these risks if not disposed of correctly. Improperly disposed materials can cause fires in trash cans, on trash trucks and at the County Transfer Station and Recycling Center in Derwood.

“Batteries are an important part of our daily lives, powering a wide range of devices and gadgets we rely on every day,” said Acting DEP Director Willie Wainer. “However, when not disposed of properly, batteries can pose serious threats to our environment and safety. Throwing batteries into regular trash bins is a hazardous practice that can lead to devastating fires.”

Do not place the following materials in the trash:

  • Batteries (dry cell and alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lead acid vehicle batteries, tool batteries).
  • Flammable or combustible liquids (such as gasoline, oil-based paints or kerosene).
  • Hazardous materials (including items such as ammonia, bleach, pool chemicals, pesticides, paint thinners).
  • Canisters containing propellants (including butane or propane).
  • Cylinders containing compressed gas (such as propane, helium, oxygen, acetylene or fire extinguishers).
  • Ashes (from fireplaces, fire pits or barbecue grills).
  • Charcoal and used charcoal bags (containing flammable agents).
  • Unknown substances (will be managed as household hazardous waste).

These items can be properly dispose of at the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station. Many retail locations also accept batteries for disposal.

It’s important to transport batteries safely. The safest methods of transporting batteries are to protect terminals by placing each battery individually into a plastic bag or taping the ends with masking or another non-metallic tape.

Additional information on the proper handling of batteries and other items is available on the County’s  “I want to recycle or dispose of …” page.

Recent Stories

Over the course of four days, during a trip to the cheesesteak capital of the world (Philadelphia, PA), we tried cheesesteaks at 18 different restaurants that are often mentioned as…

Coming soon signage is up for Yummy Bowl Mongolian Stir-fry and Sushi at 2010 Veirs Mill Rd in Rockville. The restaurant will be located in the space previously occupied by…

Montgomery County Police responded to an armed robbery on Sunday, May 12, in Bethesda.

According to Maryland Lottery & Gaming,, Maryland’s sports wagering market generated $5,686,446 in contributions to the state from a handle of $486,319,124 during April 2024.

FREE Shred Day

Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.

Why You Should Come:

Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.

Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.

Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!

Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.

This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!

Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!

For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

×

Subscribe to our mailing list