Fire Alert: Cornwall Urges Battery Recycling After Bin Lorry Blaze

In a dramatic incident in Longrock, near Penzance, a fire erupted on a rubbish collection vehicle last Friday, underscoring the dangers of improper battery disposal.

Cornwall Council is now intensifying calls for residents to recycle batteries responsibly.

Quick Response Prevents Disaster

The fire broke out while the crew was conducting their routine rubbish collection duties. Witnesses reported seeing smoke billowing from the back of the lorry, prompting the crew to act swiftly and alert the fire service. Firefighters arrived promptly on the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze, preventing any further damage or injury.

The Cause: Lithium Batteries

Investigations into the incident suggest that the fire was sparked by lithium batteries that were discarded in the general rubbish. These batteries, when damaged, can release flammable electrolytes, potentially causing explosions and rapid fires. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from the incident.

The Growing Threat of Battery Fires

Des O’Connell, from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, highlighted the increasing frequency of battery-related fires. “Lithium-ion batteries are found in many everyday items such as mobile phones, laptops, and e-bikes. Their usage has grown alongside the popularity of e-cigarettes and vapes,” Des explained. He noted that over the past year, the UK has seen more than 700 fires caused by these batteries in waste lorries and recycling centres.

A Call for Safety

Cornwall Council’s Carol Mould expressed her gratitude towards the collection crew and firefighters for their quick response. “This incident serves as a reminder of the risks posed by improperly disposed batteries. We often find batteries in general rubbish, which is highly dangerous for our waste collection crews,” she said.

Carol urges residents to use battery recycling points available in most supermarkets or local household waste and recycling centres to dispose of their batteries safely.

Protect Your Community

The council’s plea is clear: recycling batteries not only protects the environment but also ensures the safety of those who handle waste. With the rise in battery-related incidents, the importance of proper disposal cannot be overstated. Residents are encouraged to take this simple step to help safeguard their community and prevent future fires.