AAA Chicago Calls on Members and Others to Turn in Their Used, Lead-Acid Batteries

AURORA, Ill., April 20 -- In commemoration of Earth Day, AAA Chicago and its team of battery service professionals want the public's help in hunting down what is estimated to be more than 5 million used, lead-acid car, truck, boat, and motorcycle batteries that have somehow, someway not made their way back to their natural habitat; the recycling plant.

The car battery, a renewable source of vehicle power, contains lead that is 97 percent recyclable. Yet, says AAA, millions of these batteries never get a new chance at life because they get lost in the shuffle.

"Some of these old batteries are being illegally disposed of in dumpsters, or are simply placed in consumer's garages, yards or storage sheds awaiting disposal," said Nicole Niemi, spokeswoman for AAA Chicago. "AAA wants to encourage more people to take the extra and responsible step of getting these batteries to a recycling center."

With the price of lead now on the rise, AAA said recycling batteries can also play an important role in keeping the price of new batteries down. This is because recycled lead costs less than fresh lead that is mined.

Leaking acid can be a harmful to children, pets and our environment warns AAA. "The acid found in these batteries could seep into the ground, polluting our surroundings for generations to come," said Niemi.

AAA Chicago recommends that consumers wear gloves and safety glasses when handling batteries, keep them upright and place batteries in a sturdy box or plastic container when transporting them for recycling.

If the battery case is cracked or leaking, be especially careful to choose a leak-proof container. Do not smoke near or expose the batteries to an open flame, and make certain they will not shift and tip over in a moving vehicle.

This year AAA Chicago celebrates 100 years of service, as 2006 marks the membership organization's centennial celebration. Formed in Chicago in 1906, the company represents roadway interests for motorists and pedestrians and serves as a leading advocate for various traffic safety and travel-related issues.

For more information on any aspect of AAA Chicago's breadth of service including AAA's home, auto and life insurance products; travel-related services, AAA's Show Your Card & Save program; and/or any AAA membership service including emergency roadside assistance, please visit our Web site at http://www.aaa.com/ or call us toll-free at 1-877-YOUR AAA (968-7222).

AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 48 million members in the United States and Canada.