Discarded batteries have been identified as the cause of a fire in one of Erewash Borough Council’s refuse vehicles.
The incident last week saw the fire service called to the scene, with the lorry being taken back to its depot by fire engines so its smouldering load could be tipped out.
A council statement confirms that crews had found an isolated space to deposit the contents, allowing the fire service to hose the truck down.
According to the local authority, discarded batteries were identified in the waste pile, some of which were part of a handheld vacuum cleaner that had been incorrectly disposed of.
The council has since issued a renewed warning to residents, highlighting the danger of discarding these items in household waste bins.
Cllr Mark Alfrey, who is Erewash’s Lead Member for Environment, said: ‘The incident shows how casually disposing of batteries has the potential for disaster.
‘Please think twice if you are tempted to chuck them in the bin. They need to be disposed of in a safe way that does not put our refuse crews at risk – such as taking them to one of the many shops and supermarkets that have special receptacles.’
Cllr Alfrey added that throwing batteries away incorrectly results in hazardous substances contaminating the environment.
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Photo: © Erewash Borough Council.
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