Zip ties are my version of duct tape, my hubby and i both use them for tons of stuff! There are so many different strengths and lengths of them now, they can work for almost anything! A compost bin is a new one to me tho!
I don't keep zip ties in the house anymore. Ever since my son put one of the big ones around his neck and pulled it tight. It was absolutely terrifying! Maybe once my kids get too smart to wrap things around their neck I'll keep them around again.
With all the unbelievable stuff little boys do, it's a wonder any of them make it to adulthood. My little brother did something similar with a rope while he was playing cowboys and Indians years ago. My son and his buddy launched themselves on a raft into a flood-swollen creek. Neither of them could swim yet. I can empathise with your terror, Mama Chicken.