Key fob battery — keep the old coin cell away from kids and pets

Key fob

Swapped your key fob battery? Do not leave the old coin cell on the counter. Tape it, bin it right away, and keep the spare out of reach of kids and pets.

Illustration of a generic key fob, an old coin cell covered with tape, and a lidded bin
Photo: CoraCo Studio™ original (generated)

A used key fob battery looks harmless, but a shiny coin cell is easy for a small child or a curious pet to pick up. The safest habit is to deal with the old cell the minute you swap it.

What to do with the old key fob battery

  1. Work over a tray or towel so a dropped cell cannot roll away.
  2. Put a small piece of clear tape over both faces of the old coin cell as soon as it is out.
  3. Drop it in a lidded bin that kids and pets cannot reach, or in a battery recycling drop-off. Do not leave it in a cup holder or on a desk.
  4. Store the new spare cells in their original pack, up high.

If anyone may have swallowed a coin cell, treat it as an emergency and get medical help right away.

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