Bin lorry fire: Batteries pose serious fire risk

A bin lorry caught fire recently in Hereford after a lithium battery was incorrectly disposed of in household waste. The blaze occurred while waste collection crews were working on Crooked Well and Llewellin Road. Firefighters from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service successfully extinguished the fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

This incident highlights the significant dangers associated with placing batteries and vapes in regular household bins or recycling sacks. Everyday items like mobile phones, tablets, and rechargeable batteries contain lithium batteries that can ignite if crushed during the collection process, posing a severe fire hazard.

Hearldford Council is reminding residents that household batteries can be recycled by placing them in a clear plastic bag on top of their black or green bin. Small electrical items and vapes should never be placed in general waste or recycling bins. Proper recycling protects waste collection crews and prevents fires.