A fire at a scrap metal yard in Bellingham caused significant damage yesterday, with emergency services rushing to the scene after a lithium battery reportedly ignited within the waste. The blaze, which occurred on Randlesdown Road, was reported at 5:33 PM and brought under control by 6:43 PM, according to the London Fire Brigade.
The fire affected half of two ISO containers, a partial flatbed lorry, and part of two skips, covering an area of three meters by three meters. Fire crews utilized a 32-meter turntable ladder as an observation tower to manage the flames effectively. Paramedics treated one man at the scene, although details about his condition were not immediately disclosed.
A total of 29 calls were made to the 999 response centre as smoke billowed visibly from the yard, prompting a rapid response from multiple fire stations including Lewisham, Forest Hill, and Beckenham.
The incident has been officially recorded as accidental, with the initial investigation pointing to a lithium battery as the cause of the fire. This incident adds to the growing concerns over the dangers of lithium-ion batteries in waste disposal sites, which have been linked to an increasing number of fires.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade emphasized the risks associated with these batteries, stating, “Lithium-ion battery fires are a major risk. We’ve seen a growing number of fires at waste disposal sites that are believed to have been caused by a lithium battery. Even batteries built to a high standard can pose a fire risk if they are damaged or crushed.
The fire brigade also highlighted the quick spread and intensity of lithium-ion battery fires, which can be ferocious and expand within seconds. The challenges in extinguishing such fires often require extensive resources and can have significant environmental and social impacts on local communities.
Authorities are using this incident as an opportunity to remind the public about the proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries. The London Fire Brigade advises against placing these batteries in regular rubbish or recycling bins due to their potential fire risk. Instead, they recommend checking with local retailers or government websites for guidance on safely disposing of these items to minimize fire hazards.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers posed by improper disposal of electronic waste, particularly lithium-ion batteries, and underscores the need for increased awareness and safety measures in handling such materials.
