Cumberland Council urge safe disposal of hazardous household waste
It comes after a number of fires at local recycling sites
Following a number of fires, Cumberland Council are reminding people how to dispose of household chemicals, asbestos and clinical waste.
Three separate fires have occurred across Household Waste Recycling Centres sites in Cumberland over the last few months including at Bousteads, Maryport and Fitzington.
Thankfully teams onsite acted promptly and managed the fires safely and efficiently, with no injuries reported and minimal damage to infrastructure.
Councillor Bob Kelly, Executive Member for Cumberland Environment and Planning, said:
“These incidents could have had far more serious consequences, and I want to thank the HWRC staff and emergency responders for their quick thinking and calm professionalism.
Their actions helped protect the public and prevent further damage. We also appreciate the support from contractors and partners who assisted during these events.”
These incidents have now highlight the risks associated with improper disposal of hazardous items such as batteries and disposable vapes, which are suspected to be the cause of the fires at Bousteads and Maryport.
Meanwhile the fire at Flusco HWRC in early August was believed to be caused by a still-lit disposable BBQ.
Residents are being reminded on how to dispose batteries and vapes responsibly by using designated recycling points. You can find out more about hazardous household waste recycling here.