An investigation into a major fire at a recycling centre on Crompton Road in Ilkeston has concluded that a discarded battery left in recycling waste was the most likely cause of the blaze.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 8:23pm on Tuesday, April 15, after a fire broke out in a large quantity of waste at the facility. Crews from Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Services worked tirelessly throughout the night to bring the fire under control.

In total, eight fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, and high-volume pumps were used in the operation, with firefighters from Ilkeston, Long Eaton, Ascot Drive, Notts Road, Heanor, Clay Cross, Melbourne, Alfreton, Belper, Chesterfield, Crich, Wirksworth, Eastwood, Stockhill, Ashfield, Edwinstowe, and Burton-on-Trent all attending.

The flames were extinguished by 7:37am on Wednesday, April 16, and crews later returned at midday to reinspect the premises.

Following a detailed examination, the cause was determined to be a lithium-ion battery that had been improperly disposed of in the recycling waste stream.

Fire Service Issues Battery Disposal Warning

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has used the incident to urge the public to dispose of batteries responsibly, particularly lithium-ion batteries which are commonly found in mobile phones, laptops, e-scooters, and power tools.

“These batteries can be extremely dangerous when damaged, punctured, or exposed to heat, especially during recycling processes,” a spokesperson said.

Safety Tips for Battery Disposal

To help prevent future incidents, the fire service shared the following guidance:

• Do not dispose of batteries in household waste or recycling bins.
• Take damaged batteries to a local household waste recycling centre. You can find your nearest location via this link: Disposal Locations.
• Look out for warning signs of battery damage, such as swelling, leaking, overheating, colour changes, strong odours, or unusual noises like hissing or popping.
• If a device is emitting smoke, call the fire service immediately and move the device at least three metres away from any buildings or flammable material, if safe to do so.
• Never handle leaking or damaged batteries without protective equipment.

The fire service also reminded businesses and households of the growing threat of fires linked to improper battery disposal, which have been responsible for several high-profile incidents across the UK in recent years.

“Recycling batteries incorrectly doesn’t just damage the environment—it can destroy property and cost lives,” the spokesperson added.

Community Urged to Spread Awareness

Local authorities and fire crews are now calling on the public to spread awareness of battery fire risks to reduce the chance of similar events happening in the future.

For more information on how to dispose of batteries safely, visit Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service or your local council’s recycling page.