If you’re anything like my household, you have a toy box full of battery-powered toys – with a whole lot more about to be unwrapped this Christmas. But have you ever looked into how to safely dispose of used batteries? It might shock you.

Recent research conducted by B-cycle, Australia's government-backed battery recycling scheme, reveals a concerning lack of awareness regarding the safe disposal of batteries – me included.

Did you know that used batteries must be covered with clear sticky tape and never be put in general waste and recycling bins for fire prevention and child safety? It is a simply safety measure that many of us are unaware of.

The research highlights a concerning trend in battery disposal practices:

• More than half (55%) of Australians surveyed admitted to disposing of batteries improperly in regular waste or recycling bins.
• A staggering 79% of Australians were unaware of the vital safety measure of taping used batteries.
• Only 12% of respondents immediately tape the exposed terminals when replacing a used household battery.

To address these concerns and promote safe practices, experts recommend the following:

1. Covering the terminals of used batteries with clear sticky tape to make them more challenging to swallow or insert. In case of ingestion, the tape limits caustic burns and provides health staff with additional time to save a child's life.

2. Proper Disposal: Avoid putting used batteries in regular waste and recycling bins to prevent fires in the waste stream and reduce environmental impact.

3. Recycling: Take used batteries to local B-cycle drop-off points or council collection sites to ensure they are safely recycled rather than ending up in landfills. 

For more information, visit the B-cycle website.

Locally, Wollongong City Council recommends four places where you can safely dispose of your batteries:

• Libraries – Look for Council's Community Recycling Stations 
• Aldi stores – Most have bins for small household batteries
• Community Recycling Centre – as well as household batteries, the depot at Kembla Grange accepts car batteries and vape batteries (only if removed from the vape)
• Battery stores – Most will accept used batteries. Find a location on the Recycling Near You website