Recent Fire in Marshfield Garbage Truck Highlights Issue of Lithium Batteries in Garbage

Monday, June 12th, 2023 -- 11:00 AM

Garbage collectors around the state, as well as the DNR, are reminding residents not to throw away lithium batteries.

When these batteries are crushed it can cause the lithium to leak out and start a fire. Recently, a garbage truck in Marshfield caught fire after a Milwaukee tool battery was crushed inside. The driver had to pull over and dump out his load to prevent a disaster. An incident like this can cause what fire officials call a “thermal runaway.”

This is where a fire starts and really can’t be stopped until the battery is taken away and burns itself out. Regular batteries, like your AA batteries, can be thrown away without a problem. It’s the lithium batteries that cause the issues.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.