Lithium Batteries in Household Trash Are Causing Dangerous Garbage Truck Fires

Executive Briefing

• Highlights surge in trash truck fires linked to improperly discarded lithium batteries across multiple US states
• Reports two simultaneous garbage truck fires in Troy, Michigan and Roseville, California in late May 2026
• Warns batteries compressed in trucks can rupture, ignite rapidly, release toxic gases, and reignite days later
• Advises taping battery terminals or bagging separately before taking to designated recycling drop-off locations
• Identifies free recycling options at Best Buy, hardware stores, and via the Earth911 locator tool