The quick actions of Waste and Cleansing Operatives at the City of Edinburgh Council avoided a fire taking hold in a waste lorry at the end of last month.
Many of our tech and electronic devices, including vapes, contain lithium-ion batteries. When crushed these cause fires in our bin lorries and recycling centres.
The Operative spotted smouldering rubbish in general waste that had been collected from Polwarth area of the city. They immediately pulled the vehicle over safely and spilled the waste out on the street where The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were able to extinguish it quickly.
The Council’s street cleansing team then disposed of the rubbish and the vehicle was taken to be checked over.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said:
“I’d like to thank these colleagues for their quick actions as well as the fire service for stopping an actual fire from taking hold. This incident is an example of why residents must be vigilant in making sure batteries are disposed of correctly, so this doesn’t happen again. We’ve had several other incidents like this in the past and it’s important we highlight the potentially dangerous consequences that incorrect disposal of batteries can have for residents, the environment, and our colleagues.”
You can find out how to dispose of and recycle vapes, batteries and cables by going to our website.