Spring Forward Safely

January 22, 2024
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Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10, 2024.  In addition to moving clocks one hour forward, this time of year is a great time to follow safety tips.

  1. Check or replace the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. If batteries are being replaced, the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection encourages residents to dispose of batteries properly. Improperly disposed batteries in trash and recycling containers can result in trash fires.
    • To avoid a potential issues, County residents can bring all types of batteries to the Household Hazardous Waste drop-off area at the Montgomery County Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station. The recycling facility is located at 16101 Frederick Rd. in Derwood.
    • Some retailers also offer drop-off programs to recycle batteries. Check the Call2Recycle website to find a nearby locations.
  2. Review your home insurance plan! With ever changing weather, updating your home or renters insurance is an easy step to prevent future issues. Learn more about flood insurance.
  3. Create or check your emergency kit to make sure it is up to date. Visit the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security webpage for their Make a Kit page with more information.
  4. Clean your dryer exhaust and hose.  The tubing in the machine can become clogged and cause issues.
  5. Replace HVAC filters – helps your system work efficiently and reduce maintenance issues.
  6. Spring cleaning? Spring is a great time to look for items at home that you are no longer using.  Dispose of them appropriately or donate (if in working condition).
    • Toys with batteries
    • Cordless appliances and tools
    • Donate these items if still in working condition.
    • Dispose of toys, cordless appliances and tools that contain batteries

How to dispose of toys, cordless appliances and tools that contain batters?

Cordless appliances, toys, and tools have rechargeable batteries that release toxic chemicals and cause serious fires when punctured, cracked, or crushed. Please dispose of these items appropriately! 

  • Remove batteries before getting rid of old appliances, toys and tools.
  • Take all batteries to  the Montgomery County’s Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off or select retailers so that they can be properly recycled.
  • If you can’t remove the battery, bring the whole appliance to Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off for safe disposal.
  • Some retailers also offer drop-off programs to recycle batteries. Check the Call2Recycle website to find a nearby locations.

For more information on all recycling in Montgomery County, visit the Montgomery County Recycling and Resource Management Division.