Shropshire safety warning after fires linked to dangerous waste

Two separate incidents in Shropshire have prompted a major safety push about how we dispose of hazardous waste. A battery caused a blaze at a recycling centre in Shrewsbury, and a bin lorry exploded after a fire extinguisher was disposed of in a bin in Shifnal.

What happened and why it matters

These events highlight how items such as batteries, gas canisters, vapes, and certain electrical devices can ignite during collection or processing. The fires endanger waste crews and can disrupt essential services in the area.

Safe disposal guidance

Residents are urged not to place batteries, gas canisters, vapes, or other flammable items in general waste or standard recycling bins. Household Recycling Centres can accept many hazardous items, and batteries can often be recycled through the kerbside recycling service where available. Check your local council guidance for the correct disposal method.

Official voices

Councillor David Vasmer warned that the dangers of disposing of batteries, gas canisters, vapes, and electrical items with ordinary waste are real and can put collection crews at risk of injury.

Jeff Sears, Veolia regional director, said: “We urge everyone to make these simple changes that will greatly reduce the chance of fires.”

Expert note

Expert comment: A waste-safety specialist stresses that keeping hazardous items out of the general waste stream is essential to protect workers and preserve recycling programs.

Bottom line

These incidents reinforce the need for careful disposal of hazardous items. By following local guidance and using designated recycling or recycling-centre services, residents can reduce fire risks and keep frontline crews safe.

Key insight: Never place batteries, gas canisters, vapes, or other flammable items in general waste or standard recycling bins, as they can ignite during collection or processing. See the original report for details at BBC.

BBC report

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