The improper disposal of batteries has become a pressing issue in recent years, with the rising number of battery-related fires causing harm to both individuals and the environment. In North Somerset, three fires were reported in the past year, two of them starting in waste disposal vehicles and one occurring at a recycling center. These incidents have prompted the implementation of a new campaign to educate the public on the proper disposal of batteries, e-cigarettes, and gas cartridges.
Effective from February 5th, approximately 102,000 properties in North Somerset will receive a hanger on their general waste bin. This hanger will contain crucial information on how to dispose of batteries, e-cigarettes, and gas cartridges correctly. It aims to emphasize the importance of responsible waste management and fire prevention measures at home.
One of the key factors contributing to battery-related fires is the presence of lithium-ion batteries in common electronic devices such as phones, laptops, and e-cigarettes. When these batteries are damaged or crushed, they have the potential to explode and ignite fires. Therefore, it is essential to handle and dispose of them with caution.
To prevent the occurrence of such incidents, it is recommended to remove the batteries from electronic devices before disposing of them in the waste bin. These batteries should be placed in a clear bag on top of the bin to ensure proper identification by waste disposal crews. Gas cartridges and larger batteries, on the other hand, should be taken to the local recycling center for safe disposal.
The North Somerset Council has expressed its full support for this campaign, recognizing the significance of proper battery disposal in ensuring the safety of waste disposal crews and residents. Annemieke Waite, a board member responsible for climate, waste, and sustainable development, emphasized the importance of recycling these items to build a more sustainable future for North Somerset.
In addition to the campaign, the Avon Fire and Rescue Service offers a Home Fire Safety Checker tool, which is a valuable resource for securing homes and protecting loved ones. By accessing this tool through their website, residents can assess the fire safety measures in their homes and take necessary precautions to prevent potential hazards.
Russell Mitchell, the group manager at Avon Fire and Rescue Service, highlighted the urgency of proper battery disposal to minimize the risk of fires. He stressed that not only do battery-related fires pose a significant danger to individuals and firefighters, but they also result in extensive property damage.
FAQ:
1. How many battery-related fires occurred in the region in the past year?
In the past year, three battery-related fires were reported in the region.
2. Where did most of these fires start?
Two of the fires started in a waste disposal vehicle, while one occurred at a recycling center.
3. What will properties in North Somerset receive starting from February 5th?
Starting from February 5th, properties in North Somerset will receive a hanger on their general waste bin providing information on how to properly dispose of batteries, e-cigarettes, and gas cartridges.
4. What are the recommendations for disposing of lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops, and e-cigarettes should be removed and placed in a clear bag on top of the waste bin. Batteries can explode and cause fires when damaged or crushed.
5. Where should gas cartridges and larger batteries be disposed of?
Gas cartridges and larger batteries should be disposed of at the local recycling center.
6. Why is this campaign important?
The campaign is important because it helps protect waste disposal crews and residents. Recycling batteries and other electronic items helps create a more sustainable future for North Somerset.
7. What tool does Avon Fire and Rescue Service offer for securing homes and the safety of loved ones?
Avon Fire and Rescue Service offers the Home Fire Safety Checker tool, which helps secure homes and the safety of loved ones. It can be accessed on the unit’s website.
Definitions:
– Lithium-ion batteries: 一种用于手机、笔记本电脑和电子烟的电池，如果受损或压碎可能会爆炸并引发火灾。
– E-cigarette（电子烟）: 一种运作于电池上的电子吸入设备，含有香料、尼古丁和其他化学成分。
– Gas cartridge（气体弹药筒）: 一种装载气体用于烹饪和加热等各种用途的容器。
– Recycling（回收利用）: 将废弃物转化为原材料以便重新使用的过程。
Related Links:
– www.northsomerset.gov.uk
– www.avonfire.gov.uk
The source of the article is from the blog trebujena.net