Eastleigh Borough Council is urging people to dispose of batteries safely after a fire in a refuse truck
It's the second fire to take place in a refuse truck in two weeks
Eastleigh Borough Council is urging its residents and businesses to think about the disposal of unwanted electricals and spent batteries as well as hazardous waste following another fire in a refuse lorry.
The latest fire, this time in trade waste, broke out at around 6am today (Thursday, 17 July) in Netley and firefighters from Hampshire Fire and Rescue were called to tackle the incident.
The lorry was taken to the council’s depot in Hedge End where the load was made safe.
Two weeks ago (2 July) firefighters were called to another fire in a refuse lorry which firefighters believe was caused by compacted peroxide hair dye in the waste.
Eastleigh Borough Council has thanked Hampshire Fire and Rescue and staff for their efforts dealing with the latest incident.
Lithium-ion batteries (or Li-ion batteries) are commonly used in portable electronics and electric vehicles. However, when these items are placed in kerbside recycling or black bag collections, the risk of them being damaged and igniting a fire is increased.
There are a number of options for safely disposing of both electricals and batteries such as the network of Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) and takeback schemes with retailers.
To help prevent these fires, residents in the borough are advised:
- All your household batteries should be placed in a clear bag (a clear sandwich bag is perfect) and left on top of your glass to be recycled. Please be careful to store your batteries safely in a cool, dry place.
- Batteries or electrical items that contain lithium-ion (or Li-ion) batteries should NEVER be placed in your kerbside wheeled bins. Battery take back is offered at most shops who sell batteries and electrical items, and they can also be taken to your local (HWRC).