Lithium battery causes fire at Materials Recovery Facility 

Published on 16 August 2024

Residents are being reminded not to put hazardous items in their wheelie bins, including any batteries, gas bottles, chemicals or flares.

The call comes after a small fire ignited today at the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Due to the quick-thinking actions of staff, no one was harmed and minimal damage was caused to the facility.

The incident highlights the importance of recycling and disposing of waste correctly.

When items containing batteries are thrown away, they become crushed in the process, creating a spark and causing fires that risk the safety of truck drivers, machine operators and critical assets.

Free battery drop-off points are available at all of council’s waste facilities along with many supermarkets, hardware stores and various retailers. Alternatively, consumers are advised to return lithium batteries to the place of purchase.

For further information residents are encouraged to use the Recycle Mate app or visit council’s website to find your nearest drop-off point.

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