North Somerset residents to receive hangers about lithium battery disposal

Bin hangers explaining how to safely dispose of batteries, vapes and gas canisters are to be distributed from Monday.

North Somerset Council and Avon Fire and Rescue Service will issue the hangers to 102,000 properties.

It comes after three fires broke out in the area in 2023, all believed to have been caused by batteries.

Councillor Annemieke Waite said the "deeply important" campaign should help to keep people safe.

Although the lithium-ion batteries which are found in many everyday household items - including phones, laptops and vapes - are not dangerous when used properly, they can be a significant risk if they are not disposed of correctly.

The batteries can explode and start fires if they are damaged or crushed.

The move comes soon after a discarded battery caused a bin lorry to catch fire in neighbouring Bath and North East Somerset Council's area.

The hangers will be delivered by waste collection crews over the next two weeks

Avon Fire and Rescue Service has advised residents to remove batteries before disposing of electrical items in kerbside recycling boxes.

Instead, batteries should be left in a clear plastic bag on top of recycling boxes for collection crews.

Gas canisters and larger battery packs, like those for cars and power tools, should be taken to local recycling centres.

Russ Mitchell, group manager at Avon Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We're thrilled to be partnering with North Somerset Council for this campaign, as waste fires caused by batteries have been a cause for concern across the area.

"Not only can these fires be particularly dangerous to victims and firefighters, but they also cause significant damage to properties.

"Properly disposing of batteries is an important way that residents can help reduce the risk of fires starting," he added.