CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow)  Three months after New Hampshire’s ban on throwing lithium-ion batteries in the trash took effect, state fire officials are again urging residents to handle and recycle them safely — warning that mishandled batteries continue to spark fires across the state.

The reminder comes during Fire Prevention Week, as the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office, Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) highlight this year’s campaign theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

“Lithium-ion batteries are just about everywhere,” said State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey in a news release. “By following simple steps to buy, charge, and recycle correctly, we can reduce the risk of fire in our homes.”

The statewide disposal ban, which began July 1, prohibits residents and businesses from tossing rechargeable lithium-ion batteries into household trash or curbside recycling. The law, House Bill 1386, was sponsored by Rep. Karen Ebel and signed by Gov. Chris Sununu last year after several fires — including two at Keene’s transfer station in May 2024 — were linked to improper battery disposal. One of those incidents caused roughly $400,000 in damage and destroyed an excavator, according to city officials.

The law requires that all lithium-ion batteries be taken to certified recycling sites, such as Staples, Best Buy, Batteries Plus, or local transfer stations. Municipalities like Swanzey have been working to educate residents about the change, reminding them that everyday devices — from toothbrushes and cameras to scooters and lawn tools — may contain rechargeable batteries that need special handling.

Town officials in Swanzey caution residents to alert recycling staff if a battery appears damaged or swollen, noting that “they can ignite or explode when crushed.”

Nationally, the National Waste and Recycling Association estimates lithium-ion batteries cause more than 5,000 fires each year at waste and recycling facilities.

NHDES Commissioner Robert Scott said proper recycling is critical now that the law is in effect. “By recycling these batteries, we can reduce the occurrence of fires in New Hampshire while recovering valuable resources,” he said.

The NFPA also urges consumers to use manufacturer-approved chargers, unplug devices once they’re fully charged, and avoid charging them on beds, couches, or under pillows.

Residents can find safe drop-off locations at call2recycle.org or learn more about proper disposal at des.nh.gov.

Fire departments across the state will hold public events this week to raise awareness about lithium-ion battery safety and other fire prevention practices.