Proper Disposal of Household Batteries...
Alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt): Since 1994, common household batteries contain only trace amounts of mercury and can be disposed in in your regular trash. These batteries are labeled "alkaline" and sometimes marked "no added mercury" or have a green tree logo.
Nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries: NiCads, as they're called, exist in many sizes and shapes and are marked RECHARGEABLE. Some may be built into rechargeable appliances. NiCads contain cadmium, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested. NiCads should not be thrown into your regular trash. NiCads should be saved and brought to Milton's free annual spring Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.
Button batteries: These are the small, round, silver-colored batteries used in watches and hearing aids. Many button batteries contain mercury and should not be thrown out in trash. Many stores selling watches or hearing aids will accept spent button batteries. As an alternative, these batteries can be saved and brought up to Milton's annual spring Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.
Lithium batteries: These can be AA, C, 9 volt and button batteries. They are mainly used in computers and cameras. Lithium is reactive with water, and has caused serious fires. Lithium batteries should not be throw out in trash but brought to Milton's free annual spring Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.
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.
Cell Phones: The Milton DPW Recycling Center collects used cell phones and donates them to charity.
If you have a cell phone that you would like to donate, please bring it up to the Recycling Center between 9 a.m. and noon the first Saturday of every month. Just ask the attendant for the "Cell Phone Box."
About Car Batteries: If you get your vehicle repaired, the dealership or repair person should take your old battery back. As an alternative, the DPW will take your car battery for a nominal fee. Please call Buddy McDermott (617-898-4977) at the DPW Yard between 7:30-3:00 Monday-Friday to arrange a drop-off time.
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