Prevent Fires in Shipping Lithium Batteries

, the second largest rechargeable battery recycler in North America, which is based in Cartersville, is educating consumers on important safety guidelines for recycling lithium batteries.

Many consumers are not aware that shipping lithium batteries to recycling facilities without following the Department of Transportation shipping guidelines can result in an explosion and a fire, either during shipping or at the receiving facility.

"By following some simple steps to prevent the battery terminals from touching during shipment, consumers can help contribute to a healthier environment by recycling batteries, and can ensure that the batteries do not become a fire or explosive hazard," said John Patterson, CEO of Metal Conversion Technologies. "Consumers are doing something good for the environment by recycling batteries, but need to be aware of the simple but effective steps outlined by the DOT to help them feel confident that they are safely recycling batteries."

Lithium batteries produce a higher voltage than traditional alkaline batteries and often have a longer life, resulting in minimizing battery replacement. Lithium batteries are more often used in consumer products including car batteries and smaller devices such as cell phones, remote car locks, watches, digital cameras and camera recorders.

"MCT is genuinely interested in resource conservation, and environmental stewardship is the foundation of our business," said Patterson. "We truly want to make it easy and safe for consumers and companies to recycle more batteries which results in a safer and healthier environment for us all."