REDLAND City Council is urging residents to properly dispose of used batteries after two fires broke out in waste and recycling trucks at Capalaba on Monday morning.
The incidents, which occurred within hours of each other, forced truck drivers to unload burning waste and recyclables and evacuate their vehicles at Capalaba Regional Park.
Investigations revealed up to 30 burnt batteries among the materials unloaded from one truck.
The Council has issued a reminder about the dangers of placing hazardous items such as lithium-ion batteries in kerbside waste and recycling bins.
Batteries can ignite or explode if damaged or exposed to heat, posing a serious risk to waste truck drivers, emergency services, and the broader community.
In addition to the immediate fire hazard, improper disposal can damage waste collection vehicles and processing infrastructure, and cause harm to the environment.
Residents are reminded that batteries and other hazardous materials – including flares, hot ash, gas bottles, and volatile substances – must not be placed in household bins.
These items should be taken to designated disposal sites.
The Council is also encouraging people to be aware of which household items contain batteries to prevent accidental disposal.
Common examples include mobile phones, laptops, power tools, vacuum cleaners, vapes, children’s toys, e-scooters, and e-bikes.
More information about battery drop-off points is available at bcycle.com.au, and safety guidelines can be found on the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services website.
