Vape batteries are hazardous waste. Throwing them in the trash is illegal in most states and creates fire risk in garbage trucks and landfills. Here's how to dispose of them safely:

• Find a recycling location: Use Call2Recycle (call2recycle.org) to find a drop-off point near you. Most Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's stores have battery recycling bins.
• Tape terminals: Before dropping off, put a strip of electrical tape over both terminals of each 18650 cell. This prevents residual charge from causing a short during transport.
• Internal battery devices: These can't be opened — take the entire device to an e-waste recycling center. Don't attempt to extract the battery yourself.
• Damaged or swollen batteries: Place in a non-flammable container (metal can, ceramic bowl) and take directly to a hazardous waste facility. Do not put swollen batteries in standard recycling bins.