West Suffolk Council urge locals to safely dispose of vapes

West Suffolk Council believes the fire in Bury St Edmunds was sparked by a battery or vape among general household waste that had been collected. 

Two fire engines attended the incident, with firefighters at the scene ensuring the flames were completely extinguished. 

Research from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs estimates nearly five million single-use vapes are thrown away each week which equates to the lithium batteries of five thousand electric vehicles each year. 

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New legislation under the government could restrict the sale and supply of single-use vapes in England from June 1, 2025. 

Cllr David Taylor, cabinet member for operations at West Suffolk Council, said: "We have seen an increase in fires involving batteries and vapes in refuse lorries over recent months. They are extremely hazardous when not disposed of properly.

"When they are thrown in household rubbish, they pose a potential risk to workers and nearby residents, and can result in significant damage to bin lorries and equipment. We are fortunate that nobody was injured in this particular incident.

Cllr David Taylor (Image: West Suffolk Council) READ MORE: Two Suffolk council leaders named best in country as awards ceremony looms

"We urge residents to take extra care and use designated recycling points or collection schemes to dispose of used batteries and vapes safely."

Batteries can be recycled at any recycling centre in Suffolk by placing them in battery recycling containers provided by selected retailers and supermarkets. 

The council said retailers also have a responsibility to take back the used vapes they sell.