![]() (May we suggest our sister site, How-To Geek?) Assuming that you cannot operate the gadget in the normal way, here are a few resources for the most common devices: Assuming that you can still power on and operate the device, a quick web search should show you how to either clear off your personal data or wipe the device completely. If your phone is broken to the point that you can’t even turn it on, obviously you won’t be able to reset it. For example, on a modern ultra-thin laptop, the storage might be soldered to the motherboard, and thus impossible to remove without specialized tools. You can then connect it to another computer and wipe the drive. Sometimes, this is easy: If your desktop computer no longer works, you can just open it up and remove the hard drive. If at all possible, your goal should be to perform a factory reset to wipe any of your own information off the device. ![]() ![]() The second part of securing a device you’re going to dispose of is all about the data. Use common sense when handling them, keep them away from children and pets, and you should be fine. It’s more common to get a minor injury from a broken gadget like a cut from a metal case. But most of the time, these have no way to be opened externally or are marked with adequate safety warnings. Wear protection for your hands and eyes while cleaning up.Ī few other types of electronics can be dangerous if damaged, such as the large capacitors inside a power supply or heating elements in appliances. If the gadget is intact, you can remove battery acid from the plastic and electrical contacts by using a toothbrush or Q-tip soaked in lemon juice or vinegar. Once a malfunctioning battery is safe, remove it from the device if possible. If you can’t put out the fire immediately or if it spreads, call emergency services. Do not try to smother the fire this won’t work, as the battery itself is its combustible fuel. If the battery is actively on fire and it can’t be moved safely, treat it like any normal fire: Hitting it with a standard fire extinguisher works best, but using water is okay in a pinch. Try not to breathe if the battery is smoking or popping-it’s emitting dangerous gasses. If you have time, move it outside or onto a non-flammable surface. ![]() If your device starts to emit smoke, make loud popping noises, or swell up, get away from it immediately. Lithium-ion batteries and other designs contain hazardous chemicals that can burn your skin and damage your eyes, and potentially start fires if the battery is damaged. The other majorly dangerous component in most modern electronics is the battery. Note that this is only necessary if the glass itself is broken: if your device has a plastic screen or if the screen panel has broken without shattering the glass, there’s no real danger. (Make sure you’re wearing closed-toed shoes!) One that’s done, place the device in a bag or box so that no more shards can come loose. If the glass of your screen is broken, treat it just like any other broken glass: First, place the gadget down carefully, then sweep or vacuum the surrounding floor to get up any shards of glass. ![]()
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