Battery warning over hike in bin fires

Residents are putting lives at risk by incorrectly disposing of batteries that can explode and start fires in bin lorries, the council has warned.

There has been a rise in the number of batteries put in household and recycling bins for collection in the city which can have "dangerous consequences", City of Wolverhampton Council said.

They can explode if damaged or crushed, causing fires which burn quickly due to other waste in the bin or bin lorry.

Figures from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) showed more than 1,200 fires were recorded at waste sites in the UK in 2023, an increase of 71% from 700 in 2022.

Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services, said: "This is a very serious issue for our waste crews and one that can be solved by people thinking before they dispose of their batteries and items which may contain them.

"These types of battery fires spread rapidly and can damage refuse vehicles but more importantly, can threaten the lives of our workers.

"We need to send out a strong reminder to people of the importance of safe recycling. Please, please dispose of your batteries safely and think of the safety of others."

The household waste and recycling centres at Shaw Road and Anchor Lane accept the batteries - found in vapes, toothbrushes, toys, phones, laptops and musical greeting cards - as do supermarkets and shops.

They can also be picked up for free under the council's small electricals collection service after being placed in a small clear plastic bag and left on top of recycling bins.

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