Dispose Batteries Safely to Prevent Fires This Christmas

Suffolk Fire and Rescue warns that batteries hidden in everyday items can ignite fires at home or recycling centres. Learn safe disposal steps this season.

As Christmas preparations ramp up, many households accumulate items powered by batteries. Hidden cells can be found in toys, power tools, vaping devices, small gadgets, and some festive cards, and not all can be removed before disposal.

Batteries can heat, leak, or explode if damaged or crushed, creating a fire risk at home or at recycling facilities.

A Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, Lee Wilkins, stresses that battery-related fires at recycling sites are entirely preventable.

The guidance is simple: take any item with a battery to a designated recycling point rather than disposing of it with general waste.

FCC Environment, which operates 11 recycling centres for Suffolk County Council, reports a rise in fires linked to batteries and electronic items.

In April, a battery-led fire at the Red Lodge site near Newmarket burned for eight days and caused about £60,000 in damage.

Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for waste, notes that mishandling battery waste harms the environment and local communities. He also warns these incidents can disrupt bin collections, reduce recycling centre hours, or force closures, especially during the busy festive period.

What to do: bring battery-powered items to a recycling point, rather than placing them in household rubbish. If possible, separate batteries from devices, store damaged items in a fire-safe container, and hand them in at a staffed site. When in doubt, ask centre staff for guidance.

Expert comment: Fire safety experts caution that treating items with batteries as hazardous until they are properly disposed reduces fire risk. Never mix batteries with ordinary waste or place them in standard recycling streams.

Short summary: Battery-containing items can pose a serious fire danger if dumped with regular waste. Always use official recycling points, keep damaged batteries separate, and seek staff help if unsure. This approach protects homes, the community, and the environment, especially during peak festive periods.

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