Batteries in waste start fires - don't be an accidental (or hidden) arsonist!
FRWA experienced two battery fires recently.
The Kangaroo Island Resource Recovery Centre shed suffered extensive damage from a major fire started by a lithium battery. We thank our wonderful staff, emergency services, SAPOL, contractors and locals for all their help and well wishes.
The Strathalbyn Waste and Recycling Depot had a close call on the same day. Strathalbyn staff identified a hidden gas bottle still filled with gas and removed it from the general rubbish. Ten minutes later a small battery fire started in the same vicinity. Luckily, this fire was able to be extinguished completely.
FRWA pleads with users of both kerbside bins and depots to do the right thing by storing all batteries separately and declaring them at the depot for free disposal.Damaged and used batteries:
Start fires Leach chemicals into the ground Are a missed opportunity for recycling valuable resources.Battery fires in rubbish trucks and waste depots are becoming a major issue across Australia – please do the right thing:
No batteries in kerbside bins Don’t hide batteries (or gas bottles) in depot waste
Separate and store batteries (put tape over terminals) Let the FRWA Depot gatehouse staff know you have batteries to recycle for FREE. They’ll direct you to a special battery recycling bin.Further information
For more information on safe storage of used batteries visit https://recyclingnearyou.com.au/batteries
To find your nearest alternative collection location https://bcycle.com.au/drop-off/