The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

Fire prevention month
Health & Safety Top Story 

Fire Prevention Month: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Michael

In recognition of Fire Prevention Month, NYCHA would like to provide the following information about lithium-ion batteries to keep you and your family safe. 

Lithium-ion batteries power many types of devices, such as cell phones, laptops, e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-cigarettes. Despite their small size, they store a large amount of energy. Safe practices for charging and eventual disposal can prevent lithium-ion batteries from overheating and catching fire.  

Battery fires can occur when:

  • There is physical damage to the battery case
  • Batteries are overcharged or improper charging equipment is used
  • Batteries are exposed to extreme temperatures (like on a hot car dashboard or near heating appliances)
  • Batteries are defective

Safety tips:

  • Be sure that the batteries you use are from legitimate manufacturers
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage
  • Keep devices at room temperature and keep out of direct sunlight
  • Stop charging and remove from the charger once fully charged  
  • Use only compatible charging equipment with your device
  • Store batteries away from anything flammable or combustible
  • Discontinue use immediately if you observe signs of a problem (see below)

Stop using the battery immediately if you notice the below. Then remove the device from anything flammable and call 911.

  • Strange odor
  • Change in color
  • Overheating (hot to the touch)
  • Change in shape, bulging, or dents and cracks in the case
  • Leaking
  • Odd noises

NYCHA’s Micromobility Policy

NYCHA’s electric micromobility policy outlines rules for permitted lithium-ion battery-powered devices and requirements for proper charging and storage of such devices on NYCHA grounds. Click here for details.

Battery Disposal

It is dangerous to dispose of lithium-ion batteries in the normal waste stream. Lithium-ion batteries must be disposed of at a NYC Sanitation Department Special Waste Drop-Off Site (see below for locations in each borough).

When you arrive at the drop-off site, you mustshow:

  • A valid ID
  • Proof of NYC residency, such as a phone or utility bill

Special Waste Sites are open on Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM and the last Friday of the month. Sites are closed on legal holidays. Do not leave material at the site when it is closed. The sites are generally located in Sanitation Department garages and are sometimes not immediately visible. If you’re having trouble finding it, please ask for a garage foreman or supervisor.

Bronx
Hunts Point at Farragut Street and the East River (next to the Fulton Fish Market). Enter on Farragut Street, off Food Center Drive.

Brooklyn
459 North Henry Street
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Follow Kingsland Avenue to the end. The site will be on the left.

Manhattan
74 Pike Slip between Cherry Street and South Street (under the Manhattan Bridge)
New York, NY 10002

Queens
DSNY Queens District 7 Garage
30th Avenue between 120th and 122nd Streets (northwest corner of the garage)
College Point, NY 11354
Enter at 30th Avenue off College Point Boulevard and take a left after 122nd Street

Staten Island
DSNY Staten Island District 3 Garage
1000 West Service Road
Staten Island, NY 10314
Foot of Muldoon Avenue, off the Muldoon Avenue exit (Exit 5) of the southbound West Shore Expressway (440)

You may also use a third-party drop-off location to recycle your batteries. Find a site here:  Battery & Cellphone Drop-Off Locations | Call2Recycle