Over 60 fires at Grantham recycling centre prompt warning on improper vape disposal in Lincolnshire

More than 60 fires in the past year have prompted a warning about improper disposal of vapes, batteries, and small electronics.

Lincolnshire County Council urges residents not to dispose of these items in household bins due to recent fires at processing facilities.

The fires, which occurred at the recycling plant near Grantham, were caused by electronics and batteries discarded inappropriately.

Rachel Stamp, the council's waste partnership and projects manager, stressed the risks associated with these common items.

“The term ‘disposable’ is really misleading,” Rachel said. “All vapes contain a battery, and if you throw them in your bin, they can be damaged during processing, which causes a spark that can start a fire.”

As the number of fires caused by improperly discarded electronics continues to rise, Lincolnshire County Council is urging residents to dispose of these items responsibly.

The warning highlights concerns about disposable vapes, with estimates of up to five million thrown away weekly.

The government is considering a ban on these products by the end of 2025, partly due to the fire hazard they pose.

Lincolnshire's 11 recycling centres are equipped with specific containers for vapes, batteries, and electrical items, which residents are encouraged to use.

Batteries can also be taken to recycling points at many supermarkets and other shops.

For recycling information, visit the council’s website.

Dan Moss, area manager for prevention and protection at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, warned that fires at waste sites are particularly dangerous.

“Fires at waste sites or in vehicles can often be difficult to extinguish and can have serious effects on the environment and the safety of firefighters and local communities,” he said.