With an estimated 248 million vehicles on the road in North America, the proper use and disposal of vehicle batteries, tires and various types of automotive fluids are crucial to a healthy environment. Often, lead-acid vehicle batteries are left to sit in garages, backyards and storage sheds where they may be creating an environmental safety hazard. When left to sit, they could contaminate soil and ground water, explode in a fire or become a source of lead poisoning to humans and animals. Just the same, some used batteries are illegally disposed of in dumps and water sources.

When handling batteries, AAA Chicago recommends consumers wear gloves and safety glasses, keep the batteries upright and place them in a sturdy box or plastic container when transporting them for recycling. If the battery case is cracked or leaking, be especially careful to choose a leak-proof container. Do not smoke near, or expose, the batteries to an open flame, and make certain they will not shift and tip over in a moving vehicle.

To find the nearest AAA Approved Auto Repair facility to recycle your battery call (866) YOUR-AAA (1-866-968-7222) or you can visit their web site at aaa.com.