Somerset to tag bins with ‘fire risk’ warning

The tags, which emphasise the risks associated with flammable items, have been attached to every household’s recycling bag in an effort by the council to prevent fires, protect collection crews, and educate the public.

Councillor Dixie Darch, executive lead member for environment and climate change said: “It’s great that residents are making the effort to recycle but some items can pose a danger to crews and trucks. It’s important that we handle these items with care. The tag will help provide a reminder each time we put our recycling out to be collected.”

Canisters

In recent months, SUEZ staff have encountered a concerning increase in the number of gas canisters found in the recycling collected from Somerset residents, with around 2,500 cannisters having been discovered since May 2023.

The council stated that each of these canisters represents a potential fire hazard, and for safety reasons, collection crews are not permitted to inspect the contents of the bright blue bags at the kerbside, as they may contain broken glass.

Matt Canning, contract director at SUEZ recycling and recovery UK in Somerset said: “The safety of our dedicated staff at SUEZ and of the residents we service are very important, with the increase in fires over the past year posing a significant risk to both. We created this new tag to help inform residents about proper disposal methods. We ask that all residents take note of their new tag, found on the blue bag, and implement this in their everyday recycling”.

Vapes

The council also want to bring attention to other recyclable items that need to be disposed of correctly such as vapes and batteries.

Vapes can be recycled by placing them in an open bag alongside or on top of recycling boxes. If the vape is reusable, the battery should be removed and recycled separately.

According to the council household batteries should be placed in a clear, tied bag and positioned on top of the recycling. Batteries should never be disposed of in the rubbish bin.

The Fire Prevention & Control Conference – 9 November

Fire Prevention, fire control and more are on the agenda of this year’s letsrecycle.com Fire Prevention & Control Conference taking place on 9 November. To book tickets, and find out more, click here.