Shropshire warns on dangerous waste after bin fires involving batteries

Residents in Shropshire are being urged to rethink how they dispose of hazardous items after fires linked to batteries and other gear. Officials warn that items such as batteries, vape devices, electrical goods, and gas canisters can ignite when crushed in bins, putting workers at risk.

What sparked the safety drive

Two incidents have prompted the safety push: a battery caused a fire at a Shrewsbury recycling centre, and a bin lorry in Shifnal exploded after a fire extinguisher was disposed of in a bin. These events show why mixing hazardous items with general waste can be dangerous.

What to avoid putting in bins

Residents are urged not to place vapes, batteries, electrical devices, or gas canisters in household rubbish or recycling bins, as crushing these items can spark fires and endanger collection crews and the public.

Safe disposal options

Many of these items can be handled safely at local household recycling centres, and batteries can be recycled through the council’s kerbside recycling service for safe handling.

What to do instead

Take batteries to designated recycling centres or use the council’s kerbside battery recycling option. Many electrical items can be recycled at local facilities as part of the household recycling scheme.

Local voices

Councillor David Vasmer stressed caution: improper disposal of batteries, gas canisters, vaping devices, or electrical goods poses real risks to waste crews and can lead to injuries.

Jeff Sears, Veolia’s regional director, added that straightforward changes in how households dispose of these items can substantially reduce fire risks in the waste network.

Expert comment

Expert view: Public safety specialists say the incidents underscore the need for clear disposal guidelines and convenient drop-off points for hazardous items.

Stay informed

For updates, follow INLIBER Shropshire on INLIBER Sounds and its social channels.

Summary

Overall, the campaign aims to curb fires by guiding residents to properly dispose of batteries, vaping devices, and gas canisters. Safe recycling options exist to handle these items correctly, reducing risks to crews and facilities. Small behavioural changes can protect people and property across Shropshire.

Key insight: Simple changes in everyday waste disposal can dramatically lower the risk of fires in waste streams. Source: BBC News.

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