Another fire broke out in the back of a waste collection vehicle in Elmbridge yesterday. Luckily, nobody was injured, and emergency services accompanied the truck to the local depot, where the burning contents were extinguished.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and assess the damage. It is likely that some type of batteries or small lithium batteries hidden inside a small electrical appliance, such as an electric toothbrush, could be to blame. The coating on batteries is very thin, and if crushed by the weight of waste piling on top of it in the back of the truck, it can cause it to burst into flames.
Unfortunately, if the bin lorry needs repairs, it could affect collection services today and cause further delays. If you live in Elmbridge, please check this page for daily updates on your waste collection service and visit our electricals and batteries page for information on how to dispose of these items where you live.
Friday 3 July 2026