The latest bin lorry fire in Harrogate has been confirmed as the region’s sixth in the past year.
A statement from North Yorkshire Council has today revealed that the most recent incident was triggered by a battery contained in a discarded set of toy building bricks.
The local authority has now issued a warning to residents, highlighting the potential danger of ‘hidden batteries’ in household items, and reminding them to check toys, gadgets and other electrical items before disposing of them.
Providing guidance on safe recycling methods, the council has emphasised that residents should take batteries to designated collection points, such as Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) and supermarkets.
Executive member for managing our environment, Cllr Richard Foster, praised the quick thinking of the waste collection crew, as well as North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, in their management of the incident.
He said: ‘This incident serves as a timely reminder that batteries should never be placed in household waste or recycling bins.
‘Many people may not realise that items such as toys can contain batteries. Taking a few moments to remove and recycle them correctly can help to prevent fires, protect our crews and keep communities safe.’
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Photo: © Shintaro Umeda.
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