Grand Cayman, December 6, 2021 – The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) is encouraging the public to safely dispose of used batteries in the light of the recent fire at the George Town landfill on Sunday night (5/12/21).

“All batteries should be handled with care. Batteries that have been improperly disposed of can damage the environment, harm people and cause fires. We all have a role to play in preserving our environment and our health today for a better future for all. The careless act of disposing batteries as ordinary waste could have a very negative impact on our lives,” said DEH Director, Mr. Richard Simms.

Batteries used in cellphones, cameras, pagers, two-way radios, calculators, small cordless tools, and other personal digital devices can be recycled by placing them into the Blue Battery Recycling Collection Tubes located at all supermarkets and other locations.

Meanwhile, lead acid batteries such as those used in automobiles, boats, motorcycles and outdoor power equipment, and batteries used in hybrid and fully electronic vehicles should be taken to landfills, garages or any retailer that sells them.

Proper disposal of batteries will not only reduce the numbers of fires at the landfill but it will have a positive impact on the environment as many batteries contain corrosive materials and heavy metals threaten human health and the environment.

Batteries should also be separated from derelict vehicles and disposed of at the landfills. 

Additional information is available from the DEH at 949-6696. Individuals may also send an email to [email protected], visit the DEH’s website at www.deh.gov.ky  or message its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Department-of-Environmental-Health-Cayman-Islands-Government-335107266641072.