Safety Guide
Dangerous Garbage Guide
How to safely dispose of items that pose fire, explosion or toxic hazards.
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Fire Hazards
Spray Cans & Gas Cartridges
| Item | Risk | Proper Disposal |
|---|---|---|
| Spray cans | Remaining gas can explode in garbage trucks | Use up contents, puncture, dispose as “Hazardous Waste” |
| Gas cartridges | Same as above | Same (some municipalities don’t require puncturing) |
| Lighters | Remaining gas can ignite | Release gas, dispose as “Hazardous Waste” |
Lithium-Ion Batteries
The #1 cause of garbage truck fires in recent years.
- Found in smartphones, tablets, mobile batteries
- Also in heated tobacco devices (IQOS, etc.)
- Never put in burnable or non-burnable garbage
→ Drop off at electronics store recycling boxes or municipal hazardous waste collection
Note: Lithium-ion battery handling varies by municipality (hazardous waste / recyclable / not accepted). The most reliable option nationwide is the JBRC recycling box at major electronics stores (Yodobashi, Bic Camera, K’s Denki, etc.).
Explosion Risks
Gas Cylinders & Fire Extinguishers
| Item | Risk | Proper Disposal |
|---|---|---|
| Propane gas cylinders | Explosion risk | Return to dealer (not collected by municipality) |
| Fire extinguishers | Rupture risk | Contact Fire Extinguisher Recycling Center |
| Car tires | Not collected | Take to auto shop or gas station |
Toxic Materials
Batteries
| Type | Hazard | Disposal |
|---|---|---|
| Dry batteries | Mercury (some) | Hazardous waste (tape both ends) |
| Button batteries | Mercury, silver | Electronics store recycling box |
| Rechargeable batteries | Lithium, cadmium | Electronics store recycling BOX |
Fluorescent Lamps & Mercury Thermometers
- Fluorescent lamps: Contain mercury → Hazardous waste (keep in original case)
- Mercury thermometers: Contain mercury → Hazardous waste
- LED bulbs: No mercury → Non-burnable garbage (varies by municipality)
FAQ
Q. Do I need to puncture spray cans?
It depends on your municipality. Many now say no puncturing required. The most important thing is to use up all contents.
Q. My mobile battery is swelling - is it dangerous?
Very dangerous. Swelling indicates internal chemical reactions. Do not apply pressure. Consult an electronics store or manufacturer.
Related Guides
- Bulky Trash Disposal Complete Guide — Appliances with built-in batteries
- Home Appliance Recycling Guide — CFC gas in refrigerators
- Estate Cleanup - Garbage Disposal Guide — Handling hazards found in old homes