Warning after fire breaks out in bin lorry in South Cerney

The incident took place in South Cerney on Wednesday, August 30.

Although the cause of the fire is yet to be clarified, CDC has a suspicion that the fire was started by a lithium-ion battery which are often found in small rechargeable items such as toothbrushes, cameras and mobile phones. 

They are also used in single-use vapes which have become increasingly popular over the last few years.

Cllr Mike Evemy, CDC cabinet member with responsibility for waste and recycling, said: “We are very grateful to the collection crew who took immediate action in raising the alarm and the two Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service crews who attended the scene at South Cerney, brought the fire under control and escorted the vehicle safely back to the waste transfer station so the situation could be monitored. 

"Thankfully everyone was unharmed but the outcome could have been much worse. 

"Incidents like this are far and few between but are a sobering reminder of the very real risk these items pose to the safety of crews and waste collection vehicles.

“Disposable vapes are a well-known hazard due to the vast numbers out there and their potential to ignite or explode if damaged by compacting equipment on the refuse lorries. 

"Because of this, it’s really important that householders keep items containing a battery out of rubbish and litter bins and dispose of them responsibly. 

"The best way to do this is through an in-store take-back scheme.

"By law, shops selling electrical and electronic items must offer a like-for-like take-back service so these products can be recycled safely and efficiently.” 

Residents can also recycle their old electrical and electronic items using the CDC’s fortnightly recycling service by popping them inside an old carrier bag and placing this inside black kerbside recycling boxes.

More details about bins and recycling can be found at www.cotswold.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling/