North Yorkshire residents are being reminded never to throw batteries or electrical items containing batteries into household waste or recycling bins after six bin wagon fires were recorded in the past year.
The latest incident happened in Harrogate and is believed to have been caused by a battery left inside a discarded set of toy building bricks.
North Yorkshire Council says the fires highlight the growing danger posed by hidden batteries in everyday household items. When batteries are crushed or damaged during waste collection and processing, they can ignite, causing fires in refuse vehicles, recycling centres and waste transfer sites.
Lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in toys, electronic devices, vapes and electric toothbrushes, present a particular risk.
Councillor Richard Foster, the council’s executive member for managing our environment, said: “This incident serves as a timely reminder that batteries should never be placed in household waste or recycling bins.
“Many people may not realise that items such as toys can contain batteries. Taking a few moments to remove and recycle them correctly can help to prevent fires, protect our crews and keep communities safe.
“This incident could have been a lot worse if it wasn’t for our quick-thinking crew. I’d like to thank them, and of course North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, for acting so professionally and swiftly in tackling this fire.”
Residents are being urged to check toys, gadgets and other household items for batteries before disposing of them and to recycle batteries at Household Waste Recycling Centres or designated collection points, including many supermarkets.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service watch manager Sy Wray said lithium-ion batteries were an increasing concern for fire services across the country.
“If they are placed in regular household waste, mechanical damage alone can cause them to ignite and cause serious fires, putting lives and property at risk,” he said.
The council has also reminded residents that battery-powered items should be disposed of responsibly to help reduce the risk of further fires.
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