Fire crews escort smoking bin lorry which could have caused 'catastrophic fire'

The council are now warning residents about the dangers of putting batteries in general waste bins.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) had to pause collections in the Coalville area after the crew noticed smoke from the back of the waste lorry during morning collections.

When the lorry returned to the depot crews found discarded batteries and a dumped laptop, which could also have exploded en route.

Two fire engines monitored the smoking waste as it was cooled.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, NWLDC’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “Thankfully on this occasion, no one was injured, and our colleagues at Leicestershire and Fire and Rescue escorted our bin crews back to the depot where we were able to cool the waste and prevent a catastrophic fire.

“If batteries aren’t disposed of safely they can explode, with disastrous consequences. We offer a fortnightly kerbside battery recycling service, simply place your used batteries in a tub or jar next to your recycling containers for our crews to collect and safely transport.”

The council are now warning residents about the dangers of putting batteries in general waste bins.

They have shared this advice:

• Keep ALL batteries out of recycling and waste bins

• Recycle household batteries on recycling collection day in a separate lidded container e.g. jar or tub, next to recycling containers

• Take small electrical items including batteries to recycling and household waste sites in Coalville or Lount

• Use battery collection points in shops

• Visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/recycling_AZ to find out how to recycle any item

• Check waste collection calendars being delivered now for key recycling information

A Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, said: “Never put batteries in the general waste. They are likely to be crushed or punctured when the waste is collected and processed. This can cause a spark and in turn start a fire - putting people’s lives at risk and using valuable fire service resources.

“Batteries can be disposed of safely by taking them to local waste and recycling centres. Alternatively, many supermarkets have special recycling bins for you to safely dispose of your batteries.”