By SWANN
The Solid Waste Agency of Northwest Nebraska (SWANN) experienced a fire on Friday 7/17/26 caused by the improper disposal of an electric, battery-powered scooter. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident serves as an important reminder that rechargeable batteries can pose a serious fire hazard when placed in the regular trash.
SWANN is asking all residents to never dispose of rechargeable battery-powered items in household garbage. This includes electric scooters, e-bikes, power tools, laptops, cell phones, rechargeable toys, vape devices, and any other equipment containing lithium-ion or other rechargeable batteries.
To help protect our employees, facilities, and communities, every community served by SWANN has a designated battery collection box. These metal collection containers are located at your local transfer station or community collection site and are available for the safe disposal of rechargeable battery-powered items.
Please note that standard household alkaline batteries, such as AA, AAA, C, D, and 9-volt Duracell® or Energizer® batteries commonly used in flashlights, remote controls, and radios, do not present the same level of fire risk as rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
A single improperly discarded rechargeable battery can ignite a fire, putting employees, emergency responders, equipment, and public resources at risk. By taking a few extra moments to dispose of these items properly, you help keep our facilities safe and protect the communities we serve.
Thank you for your cooperation and for helping keep Northwest Nebraska safe.