Somerset residents are being urged to think twice before throwing items in their bins as the county's emergency services issue an appeal to prevent fire.
The announcement has been made after a rise in fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, which when damaged during collection or processing can short-circuit, overheat and ignite.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has issued the warning following a series of incidents at waste facilities and on collection rounds.
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Since January 2026, eight fires have been recorded in Somerset waste depots and vehicles, with half caused by incorrectly disposed batteries and vapes.
To highlight the risks, Councillor Richard Wilkins joined firefighters at the SUEZ-operated recycling facility in Evercreech on July 22.
The visit underscored the dangers posed when hazardous items are mixed with general waste.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in phones, laptops, vapes, e-bikes, and toys, can ignite if damaged.
Fires can spread rapidly, are difficult to extinguish, and may reignite. Other combustible items can also create a fire hazard if not disposed of properly, like camping stoves or gas cannisters.
Kate Saint, Head of Prevention at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are part of many products we use every day and, when used and disposed of correctly, they are safe. However, when damaged or crushed, they can ignite without warning.
“These fires spread rapidly, are challenging to deal with and put people’s lives at risk.
"Separating batteries and electrical items from general waste may seem like a small action, but it plays a vital role in preventing fires and protecting our communities.”
Residents are advised never to place loose batteries or electrical items, including those containing batteries, in general waste bins. Instead, they should use designated battery and vape recycling points, often available in supermarkets, or place items in a small, clear tied bag and leave it on top of recycling boxes for kerbside collection.
Unwanted electrical items can also be taken to local recycling centres, while small electricals (excluding monitors, TVs or microwaves) can be left in carrier bags for kerbside pickup.
Somerset residents can find their nearest drop-off points via Recycle Your Electricals, with further guidance available on the council website.
Matthew Canning, SUEZ Contract Director for Somerset, said: "Fires caused by incorrectly disposed lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous items pose a serious risk to our crews and facilities.
He added: "We’re asking residents to help protect our teams by disposing of batteries and electrical items through the correct recycling routes. A simple change can make a real difference in preventing dangerous fires."
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