A fire which broke out inside a ABC Council bin lorry has prompted fresh warnings to residents about the dangers of throwing batteries into household waste.
The incident – which happened less than a year ago near Dromore during a routine collection run – saw quick-thinking ABC Council staff empty the contents of the lorry on the roadside to prevent the blaze from spreading and destroying the vehicle. Thankfully, no-one was injured.
Now Council is urging the public to ensure all batteries are disposed of correctly and not placed in black bins.
Batteries can ignite when compacted in bin lorries, posing a serious risk to collection crews, the public and the environment.
Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray said it was vital residents understood the dangers.
He explained: “Many of our residents have made great strides in recycling their household waste, but when it comes to batteries there may be some people who do not know just how important it is to dispose of them correctly.
“Our own staff have seen at first hand the dangers which batteries can cause. We want to keep our staff safe when they are collecting waste as well as protecting the safety of the wider public.”
He added: “The message is very clear: never put batteries in a bin. Take them to a collection point at one of our household recycling centres or a local shop that sells batteries. These are simple steps which will keep everyone safe from this danger and help protect the local environment.”
Batteries can be recycled at all of the borough’s household recycling centres, as well as at local shops that sell them.
For details of your nearest recycling centre and what materials can be accepted, visit: www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/recycling-centres
