Poor battery recycling practice has led to a fire breaking out in one of Southampton City Council’s bin lorries.
The incident occurred last Thursday, with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service being called to the scene to extinguish the blaze.
A ‘significant clean-up operation’ was required after waste was tipped onto the street while the fire was put out, with the council revealing that support from additional waste and street cleansing crews was needed in the aftermath.
The local authority has since confirmed that the incorrect disposal of a battery in a household bin had caused the blaze, and has issued a warning to residents reminding them not to handle waste this way in future.
It also highlighted the potential for these incidents to interfere with collection rounds and schedules.
A council spokesperson said: ‘Fires like this are entirely preventable and pose a serious risk to our staff, our vehicles, and the public. Batteries and electrical items should never be placed in any household bin, as they can ignite when crushed during collections.
‘We are asking all residents to dispose of batteries and electricals responsibly. There are many free, convenient recycling options available across the city, and residents can find their nearest location by visiting soton.cc/recycleyourelectricals.’
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Photo: © Shintaro Umeda.
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