Crime & Safety
Wisconsin Fire Alert: Batteries Can Spark Fires in Trash Trucks
Lake Geneva, WI – Wisconsin residents cleaning out drawers filled with old batteries are being urged to check how they dispose of them after Lake Geneva fire officials warned that certain batteries ca
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-16T15:20:54.909Z
Lake Geneva, WI – Wisconsin residents cleaning out drawers filled with old batteries are being urged to check how they dispose of them after Lake Geneva fire officials warned that certain batteries can spark dangerous fires inside garbage trucks and recycling facilities.
According to the City of Lake Geneva Fire Department , batteries thrown into household trash or recycling carts can create serious fire hazards, particularly when rechargeable or lithium ion batteries are damaged or crushed during collection.
The department shared disposal guidance for Walworth County residents Friday, Oct. 16, explaining which batteries can go into household garbage and which require specialized collection.
Which Batteries Can Go in the Trash?
Regular alkaline batteries, including AA, AAA, C, D and 9 volt batteries, may be placed in household trash under the department's local guidance.
However, several other battery types should never be thrown into regular trash or curbside recycling bins.
These include rechargeable lithium ion batteries found in phones, laptops, power tools and cordless vacuums, along with button batteries, nickel metal hydride batteries and nicotine vaping devices.
Car Batteries Require Special Disposal
Lead acid vehicle batteries are prohibited from household trash disposal in Wisconsin.
Residents should return them to retailers that sell car batteries or bring them to an approved collection event.
Electric vehicle owners should contact their dealership for battery disposal instructions.
Free Collection Event Scheduled
Walworth County's next free Clean Sweep event is scheduled for June 25 26, 2027, at Walworth County Public Works, W4097 County Road NN in Elkhorn.
Residents can also locate participating battery collection sites through Call2Recycle.org.
Before transporting batteries, officials recommend covering exposed terminals with tape or placing each battery in its own clear plastic bag.
The Lake Geneva Fire Department emphasized that it does not accept batteries for disposal.
For additional information, residents can contact Walworth County Recycling and Solid Waste at 262 741 3116 .