Coin battery safety at home
Why loose coin cells are dangerous for children and pets, and how to store and dispose of them.
Why it matters
A swallowed coin cell can cause severe internal burns within hours. Children and pets are most at risk, and the battery does not need to be new to cause harm.
If you think a child has swallowed a battery, seek emergency care immediately. In the US you can also call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Safe handling
- Change fob batteries out of reach of children, and keep spare packs closed and stored high up.
- Tape over both sides of a used cell before throwing it away or taking it to recycling.
- Make sure the fob case is fully closed after a battery change, so the cell cannot fall out.
Find your exact battery
Each vehicle page lists the battery size, opening steps and the manual it came from.
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Last updated 2026-10-16. General advice; your owner's manual is the final word for your vehicle.