This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks/Duracell.
Every holiday, there’s one thing we’re sure of: we’re going to use a lot of batteries. I wish it weren’t so, but since our TV just blew, it turns out we need 2 remotes to operate the new one – augh! Plus we have a PlayStation 4 and a WiiU, so that means even more battery power…and let’s not get started on how much my iMac keyboard and mouse drain batteries!
But batteries can post safety issue when not used properly – and little ones and kids with special needs must be protected. Here is a safety guide for battery users that can keep your family free of mishaps this holiday season:
1. Remove dead batteries from toys and other objects.
This is especially true if you don’t use the toy any longer! Over time, dead batteries can leak and the toy could become toxic and useless. So make sure to throw those old batteries away.
3 YEARS AGO: A very AWESOME gift! Who doesn’t love Elmo?
2. Dispose of them properly.
Standard batteries used to contain mercury but Duracell has removed all mercury from their alkaline batteries since 1993. They are now made of common minerals, like steel, zinc and manganese. That said, you should throw them in the regular trash as long as they are not lithium batteries or greater than 9 volts. In that case, make sure to wrap the contact ends in packing or electrical tape. Do not put them in recycling and do NOT throw large batches of them out together because they may still have a little charge left.
3. Remove batteries from items you won’t use for several months.
This will prevent damage to the product should a leakage or corrosion problem occur during months of disuse. If this does happen, call the manufacturer. Duracell guarantees their batteries and will replace any item that suffers from a defective battery.
2 YEARS AGO: This guy ate up batteries because we played with him SO MUCH!
4. Keep batteries away from little ones and kids who can’t discern safety.
Button batteries can easily be swallowed by a child or kids with disabilities like sensory issue. They may also put batteries in their mouths. We store our batteries safely tucked away on a high shelf in the garage, and keep our battery-operated toys up on a shelf in the toy room when they are not being used. I recommend keeping a few power outage flashlights, without the batteries in them, just for those emergencies, right next to your batteries.
5. Never put a non-rechargeable battery in a battery charger.
I was surprised to learn people actually do this! They can leak or even explode. This can be dangerous so if you do this, please stop.
1 YEAR AGO: SHH! Furby is very tired from playing with Zoe. Yes, the stickers go all the way around him.
6. Don’t expose batteries out to extreme temperatures.
Extreme heat or cold is not good for them. Also note that keeping them in the fridge WON’T make them last longer. In fact, those extremes are exactly what can cause them to leak – which is why you shouldn’t leave them around in old or unused objects.
7. Never put batteries in the wrong way.
I know it’s hard to see that little plus sign sometimes, but please make sure all the batteries are facing the right direction. Your device may be able to run with 1 or 2 improperly placed, but you can ruin your device.
THIS YEAR: This awesome guy hops & bops to the music, but he also takes button batteries!
8. Buy toys with a screwed-in battery plate.
I know these are a pain for adults, but if you are super worried that your curious child will pull the batteries out, these toys are a great option, especially if you don’t keep the toolkit close by your kid’s room. Heck, even with a screwdriver, I have a hard time opening these darn things!
When I buy batteries, I almost always purchase Duracell Coppertop. Seeing that copper head means lasting quality. These long-lasting batteries have a 10-year guarantee in proper storage with its Duralock Power Preserve Technology, and are the top choice among first responders and parents. Duracell Coppertop AA Alkaline Battery 4-packs are ideal for frequently used toys, making their 4 pack a perfect stocking stuffer, while the standard batteries are perfect for things like all those remotes and my Mac accessories. A Duracell Coppertop AA Battery 16-pack goes a long way to keeping all our stuff running. Find them at your local Walmart.
So tell me, how are you powering up this holiday season?
miranda papandreou says
I am asking my in laws for batteries for xmas LOL
Gina B says
LOL! I’m so happy to have some. FOR ONCE.
Cindy Dudas says
I ALWAYS forget to take out batteries from toys we aren’t using… thanks for the reminder!
Gina B says
You’re welcome Cindy!
Brandi says
I had no idea about wrapping the ends in electrical tape! Who knew?!
Gina B says
Me either! Better to be safe, right?
Jessica @EatSleepBe says
If a toy does not have a screwed in battery plate, we usually put some tape over it because otherwise my kids would have a tendency to get the plates off and batteries all over the place.
Gina B says
Ok, THAT is excellent advice Jessica! Thank you for sharing.
EVODD says
Everyone can appreciate some good safety tips, especially when it comes to their kids. Thanks for sharing these! In all the holiday excitement, it can be easy to forget about safety concerns that come with toys. I also find it easy to forget about old batteries until it comes time to take the device out again and the battery has leaked! This is a great list of things to remember this year.