Cambridgeshire residents urged to safely dispose of batteries

Since January 2023, Cambridgeshire has experienced a significant rise in battery-related fires, with 33 incidents reported by local firefighters. Notably, 10 of these fires occurred in bin lorries, prompting concerns from the National Fire Chief Council about the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries. The increase in battery disposal has led to a higher frequency of fires in both bin lorries and recycling centers, with seven lorries catching fire in the Greater Cambridge area in 2024 alone. In response to this alarming trend, local authorities are urging residents to avoid disposing of batteries and electrical items in regular waste. Greater Cambridge Shared Waste has initiated a campaign to raise awareness about safe disposal methods, including the placement of informative posters on bin lorries. Rob Olivier, head of community fire safety at Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service, emphasized that compacted batteries pose a heightened fire risk, particularly if they are damaged. Research conducted by Recycle Your Electricals indicates that battery fires across the UK have surged to an unprecedented level, with 1,200 incidents reported in the past year, a significant increase from 700 in 2022. This trend highlights the urgent need for proper disposal practices to mitigate fire hazards associated with battery waste. Local officials, including Natalie Warren-Green from South Cambridgeshire District Council, recommend that residents recycle batteries, vapes, and small electrical items at designated collection points. For those with personal bins, batteries can be safely recycled by placing them in sealed bags on top of wheelie bin lids, ensuring a safer community and reducing the risk of fire incidents.