KINGMAN – The City of Kingman is reminding residents of the serious dangers associated with improper disposal of lithium batteries and cigarette or fire pit ash. These materials can cause fires in trash trucks and bins, posing a threat to our solid waste crews, equipment, and the community.
Recently, one of the city’s trash haulers caught fire. While the fire’s official cause is unknown, a lithium battery or cigarette ash are potential causes and examples of what not to dispose of in regular trash bins. “Our drivers are trained to dump burning trash in a safe place as soon as they know a fire has started, and call 911,” said Ed Tapia, the City’s Solid Waste Superintendent. “Thankfully, in this circumstance, no one was injured and the damage was minimal, but it serves as a strong reminder that lithium batteries and hot ashes do not belong in regular trash containers.”
When lithium batteries are crushed or damaged during collection, they can ignite and lead to dangerous fires. Instead, residents should hold on to lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous items until they can be properly disposed of. The City of Kingman partners with Mohave County to host two Household Hazardous Waste Collection events each year, providing a safe and convenient way to discard of these materials. The next event is scheduled for this fall.
Another common fire hazard is improperly discarded cigarettes or fire pit ash. Even if it appears cool, ash can contain embers that stay hot for days and may reignite once placed in a bin. Cigarette butts should always be put out in water or sand. Let them cool completely before tossing them. To dispose of ash safely, it should be placed in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and allowed to cool for at least four days. Once completely cold, residents should double-bag it in plastic bags before placing it in the trash. Never dispose of ash in paper bags, plastic containers, or directly in the trash.
The City of Kingman appreciates the resident’s cooperation to help protect the City’s Solid Waste employees, prevent equipment damage, and ensure the safety of our community. For more information on proper disposal practices or upcoming hazardous waste events, please contact the City of Kingman’s Solid Waste Department at (928) 692-3102 or visit their website at: https://www.cityofkingman.gov/government/departments-i-z/public-works/solid-waste
