Lithium Battery Sparks Fire in Wandsworth Bin Lorry

Council issues reminder about rules on disposal of electronic waste

Fire fighters damp down the refuse that caught fire. Picture: Wandsworth Council

August 27, 2025

A fire broke out in the back of a Wandsworth waste collection truck last Wednesday morning, 20 August, after a small lithium battery was mistakenly placed in a household recycling bag. The incident occurred at approximately 7:20am and was quickly spotted by the waste collection crew, who alerted the fire brigade.

Firefighters arrived promptly and extinguished the blaze within ten minutes. Although no injuries were reported, the fire caused damage to the vehicle and posed a serious safety risk to both the crew and members of the public.

The council has confirmed that the fire was triggered by a lithium battery, which should never be disposed of in regular household waste or recycling. Instead, batteries must be taken to designated recycling points to prevent similar incidents. These facilities are available across the borough, including at all local libraries. Retailers who sell more than 32 kilograms of batteries annually—equivalent to one pack of four AA batteries per day—are also required to offer free battery recycling services.

Paul White, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, urged residents to take extra care when disposing of batteries. “It’s vital we all familiarise ourselves with the recycling rules to prevent serious incidents like this,” he said. “Our recycling A–Z has details on most household items, so please do check it out and help protect our hard-working waste crews.”

The council is using the incident as a reminder of the dangers posed by improper disposal of electronic waste and the importance of following recycling guidelines to ensure public safety.

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Lithium Battery Sparks Fire in Wandsworth Bin Lorry

Council issues reminder about rules on disposal of electronic waste

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