SPOKANE, Wash. -- Once your lithium batteries turn old or become damaged, make sure you are keeping yourself and your family safe by disposing of them properly.

A lithium ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery used in many common items such as cell phones, electric toothbrushes and laptops.

They are generally safe to use. However, if they are damaged or mistreated, the batteries do have the potential to overheat, catch fire or explode.

In February, a major in Spokane's Hillyard neighborhood. It took hours for the fire department to put out the flames and caused toxic gas to be released into the air.

According to Battery Smart Spokane, it is important to dispose of old or damaged lithium ion batteries properly to avoid any potential fire risk.

"Fires involving lithium-ion batt

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