Little Compton, R.I. — July 20 — A laptop battery swelled, prompting the Little Compton Fire Department to react to a call regarding a possibly dangerous lithium-ion battery. Firefighters removed the battery from the property for appropriate disposal after securing it in a specialized safety container due to the possibility of overheating or fire. The department, which is located at 60 Simmons Rd., offers hazardous materials assistance, emergency medical response, fire suppression, and rescue services to the entire community.

Fire officials advised locals to use authorized recycling or hazardous waste collection programs whenever possible rather than puncturing, crushing, or disposing of damaged lithium-ion batteries in household trash.