Truck fire sparks recycling warning

Firefighters put out a fire that began in a recycling truck on Moreland Street, Footscray on January 29. (supplied) 456631_01

A recycling truck fire in Footscray on Thursday morning is an example of why batteries and e-waste need to be properly disposed of according to Maribyrnong council.

The incident occurred in Moreland Street when a fire broke out in waste being carried by a council recycling during morning pick-up on January 29.

Moreland Street was closed to traffic while fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze.

No one was injured and the truck only suffered minor damage from the fire which is believed to have been started by an old battery or piece of electronic waste being placed in a recycling bin.

“This incident highlights the importance of proper disposal of batteries and electronic waste, as these items can lead to fires, environmental harm, and health risks when placed in household bins,” said a spokesperson for Maribyrnong council who urged residents to dispose of such items at one of a number of drop-off locations instead.

For small electronic items (under 50cm high and 60cm wide) such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, those locations include Bristow Street Car Park, Seddon, Donald Street Car Park, Footscray, Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, Maribyrnong Community Centre and Raleigh Road Activity Centre, all in Maribyrnong.

Larger e-waste items like TVs, fridges, and washing machines can be dropped off at the Brooklyn Resource Recovery Centre, Brooklyn, Moonee Valley Transfer Station, Moonee Ponds and Citywide Transfer Station on Dynon Road in West Melbourne.

For household batteries, residents are advised to use the drop-off point finder to locate their nearest recycling point: bcycle.com.au/drop-off