North Yorkshire residents are being reminded not to place batteries or unwanted electrical items containing batteries in their household waste or recycling bins to help to prevent fires.
The warning follows six bin wagon fires across the county in the past year.
The most recent incident in Harrogate was believed to have been caused by a battery left inside a discarded set of toy building bricks, prompting renewed concern about the dangers of batteries hidden in everyday household items.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing our environment, Cllr Richard Foster, said: "This incident serves as a timely reminder that batteries should never be placed in household waste or recycling bins.
"Many people may not realise that items such as toys can contain batteries.
"Taking a few moments to remove and recycle them correctly can help to prevent fires, protect our crews and keep communities safe.
"This incident could have been a lot worse if it wasn’t for our quick-thinking crew.
"I’d like to thank them, and of course North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, for acting so professionally and swiftly in tackling this fire."
When batteries are damaged, crushed, or punctured during waste collection and processing, they can ignite and cause fires in refuse vehicles, recycling facilities, or waste transfer sites.
Lithium-ion batteries, which are particularly hazardous, are commonly found in toys, electronic devices, vapes, and electric toothbrushes.
Residents are being urged to check and remove batteries from toys, gadgets, and other electrical items before disposal.
Batteries can be recycled free of charge at designated collection points, including household waste recycling centres and many supermarkets.
Sy Wray, watch manager at North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Unsafe disposal of batteries, in particular lithium-ion type batteries commonly used for vaping equipment, are a real emerging concern for our service and services across the country.
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"If they are placed in regular household waste, mechanical damage alone can cause them to ignite and cause serious fires, putting lives and property at risk.
"Please check for guidance around safe and responsible disposal of batteries and battery powered items."
More information on battery recycling and how to find your nearest recycling centre is available on the North Yorkshire Council website.
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