According to the GMB trade union, three bin lorry fires have reportedly occurred over the past two weeks in Glasgow, with the final incident having taken place on school grounds.

The fires are thought to have been caused by lithium batteries that were discarded incorrectly.

GMB convenor Chris Mitchell told The Scotsman that ‘the consequences are really serious and frightening’, emphasising the fear of repeated incidents moving forward.

Mr Mitchell reportedly added that the new vehicles were introduced three weeks ago and have a stronger crushing capacity, possibly causing items to catch fire.

He is also said to be pushing for Glasgow City Council to increase public understanding of the risks surrounding battery disposal through an ‘ongoing campaign’, as well as encouraging vape shops to promote responsible battery handling of those using vapes.

A spokesman for the council said: ‘Residents should always recycle their hazardous waste at their local recycling centre. Household batteries can also be recycled in a wide range of places, such as supermarkets, retail outlets and other public buildings.’

They added: ‘In the recent Glasgow incidents, staff followed the correct safety procedures and this helped to minimise the impact of the incidents. We will continue to monitor this issue very closely to keep our staff and facilities as safe as possible.’

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