Cooperative Living November/December 2017 - 24

SafetySense
Battery Safety Over the Holidays
While batteries may seem harmless, safety should always be a top concern when handling them.
Power
for Holiday
Gadgets
F
or decades, batteries have provided a
portable source of electricity. From
the tiny lithium ones in our mobile
phones to the familiar AA and AAA
batteries used to power flashlights and
television remote controls to the large ones
used to power vehicles and industrial
applications, we rely on them every day.
With holiday gift-giving season fast
approaching, parents will be stocking up
on batteries for various gadgets as well as
many types of toys their children and
grandchildren will receive. While batteries
may seem harmless, safety should always
be a top concern when handling them.
Here are 10 tips to stay safe while using
this dependable source of power:
* When putting batteries in a device,
don't mix different brands.
* As you insert each battery, be careful
to match the positive and negative
symbols of the battery to the product
labeling. Some products might still
operate even if a few batteries are
positioned the wrong way, but this
will present a hazard.
* Don't use batteries that are damaged
(bulging or rusty) or show signs of
chemical discharge. The white crystals
found on the outside of corroded
batteries can cause respiratory, skin
and eye irritations.
22 | Cooperative Living | November-December 2017
* Before using a battery of unknown
age, confirm that the contact points of
both the battery and product are clean
by putting on disposable gloves and
gently wiping each end with a clean
cloth. If needed, dampen the cloth
with either white vinegar or baking
soda mixed with water.
* Store batteries in upper cabinets and
out of the reach of very young
children, who may put objects they
shouldn't in their mouths.
With holiday giftgiving
season fast
approaching, parents
will be stocking up on
batteries for various
gadgets as well as
many types of toys
for their children.
* When storing a device, remove its
batteries to help avoid corrosion and
prolong the life of the product.
* Rather than disposing of batteries with
regular household garbage, take time
to research and find an approved
recycling center in your area.
* When storing extra batteries, include
the receipt or a note as to when you
purchased them so when you need to
use them, you'll know how old they are.
* Not sure which disposable batteries are
still usable? Invest in a portable tester,
available from various online and retail
providers for less than $10. Rotate
newer batteries into items where a fresh
battery is crucial, such as a flashlight.
* For lithium and rechargeable batteries,
be careful to only use manufacturerapproved
chargers.
At a time of year when batteries are on
everyone's list, be vigilant about their use
and make sure you put safety first! 
Source: www.esfi.org
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Cooperative Living November/December 2017

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