Landfill Fire Prompts Warning on Lithium-Ion Battery Disposal

WINNESHIEK COUNTY — In response to a recent fire at the Winneshiek County Sanitary Landfill (WCSL) on June 14, authorities are urging residents to exercise caution when disposing of lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous waste. The incident, which ignited concerns about the safety of landfill operations, emphasizes the need for proper disposal methods to prevent hazardous situations. According to the WCSL, fires at landfills are frequently attributed to lithium-ion batteries, which pose significant risks if not handled correctly. When these batteries are damaged or improperly disposed of, they can heat up rapidly, reaching temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees fahrenheit within seconds, thereby increasing the likelihood of fires. The WCSL spans approximately 170 acres —with 80 acres dedicated to landfill activities— and serves residents and businesses across Clayton County, Howard County, Winneshiek County, and the City of Postville. Operated by the Winneshiek County Solid Waste Agency, the facility handles approximately 22,000 tons of waste annually. In light of the recent incident, the landfill has reinforced its Emergency Response and Remedial Action Plan to mitigate potential risks such as fires, explosions or environmental contamination. According to T.J. Schissel, Director of the WCSL, "It is reasonable to ask consumers to consider all of the items in their home that they need to charge or put rechargeable batteries into as items not accepted at the landfill. That list continues to grow as more items become modernized and focused on convenience." The landfill strictly prohibits the disposal of rechargeable batteries, along with a range of other hazardous materials, to prevent dangerous incidents. Accepted materials include alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C and D), which can be disposed of in household waste, while rechargeable, button, and lead-acid batteries must be taken to designated recycling centers like the Freeport Recycling Center. "If an item requires charging, it then holds or stores that energy for future use in a battery," Schissel said. "Most rechargeable batteries used today are lithium-ion batteries. Older rechargeable batteries that are still used in some items include lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries, both of which contain toxins and should also not be thrown in the trash. Consumers can reference the labels on products, as many will show a trash can with an X over it to indicate the battery or item cannot be thrown in the trash." Residents are reminded that the landfill operates under strict safety protocols, including visual inspections of incoming waste and adherence to local and state fire codes. In cases where fires originate from waste loads, trained personnel promptly mitigate risks using on-site extinguishers or by contacting local fire departments. The recent landfill fire serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by improper disposal of hazardous materials. By following recommended disposal guidelines and utilizing designated recycling facilities, residents can contribute to a safer environment and help prevent future incidents at the landfill. A Full list of accepted and prohibited landfill waste can be found here. A Full list of how to dispose of different types of batteries can be found here. Stay informed, stay inspired! Newsletter sign up is free, join hundreds of free subscribers who rely on DecorahNews.com for trusted information and fresh perspectives.