Toss dead batteries to the curb in Orillia after clocks go back

Dead batteries lie in a plastic bag beside recycling bins. Fri., Oct. 25, 2024 (SUBMITTED)

T’is the season for ghouls, ghosts and long-gone batteries.

Orillia residents are being asked to place used batteries at the curb for special collection during the week following Daylight Saving Time.

From November 4 to 8, residents can set out spent household batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, button batteries, etc.) in a sealed clear plastic bag, such as a zippered sandwhich bag, and place it on the ground with the rest of your curbside waste items.

This has changed from previous years when batteries were placed in a bag on top of the recycling bin.

“As we prepare for changes to the blue box recycling programs in Ontario, we have changed our curbside battery collection and ask residents to now place their clear, plastic bag of batteries on the ground next to your other waste collection materials,” said Greg Preston, director of Waste Management and Environmental Compliance.

“We encourage residents to help protect the environment and divert corrosive chemicals from the landfill by placing your used household batteries at the curb during this special collection week,” he said.

Residents are also encouraged to replace batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when changing their clocks back an hour on November 3.

The curbside battery collection program does not include businesses and apartments that set out large roll-out carts. A year-round recycling option for batteries includes dropping them off at Orillia’s Household Hazardous Waste Depot located at the Waste Diversion Site at 100 Kitchener St, Orillia.