Warning issued over battery disposal after series of fires in Wiltshire
Residents across Wiltshire are being urged to dispose of batteries responsibly following a number of fires believed to have been caused by improperly discarded batteries.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) has confirmed that three separate fires linked to batteries have occurred within the past two weeks at sites in Warminster, Stanton St Quintin and Lower Compton.
Fire officials are warning that batteries placed in household waste can pose a significant fire risk, particularly if they become damaged or crushed during the waste collection and recycling process.
Group Manager Shaun Milton from DWFRS said batteries are generally safe when used correctly, but can become hazardous if overcharged, damaged, short-circuited or exposed to water.
The latest incident occurred earlier this week at a waste transfer station near Lower Compton, north of the household recycling centre, where a large fire involving around 100 tonnes of household waste required the attendance of 10 fire engines.
Fire chiefs say the number of fires linked to batteries is increasing both locally and across the UK.
Batteries hidden inside everyday items, including disposable vapes, mobile phones and electronic devices, can ignite if they are punctured, compacted or shredded during waste processing.
Wiltshire Council Leader Ian Thorn said recent incidents had highlighted the dangers posed by incorrectly disposed batteries.
He warned that fires at waste sites can place staff at risk, disrupt essential services and cause significant damage.
Residents are being encouraged to recycle used household batteries at designated collection points located at Household Recycling Centres across Wiltshire.
Wiltshire Council also offers a kerbside battery recycling service. Residents can place unwanted batteries inside a clear, sealed bag and leave it on top of their blue-lidded recycling bin or alongside their blue recycling sack on collection day.
Officials are reminding residents never to place loose batteries, vapes or battery-powered devices in general household waste bins.
By recycling batteries correctly, residents can help reduce the risk of fires and protect both waste workers and the wider community.
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