One of our recycling trucks caught fire in Hawthorn on Tuesday 13 January after incorrect items were disposed of in kerbside recycling bins.

The cause of the fire is still being determined, but potential e-waste items in the load that may have caused it include:

• a jerry can full of fuel
• a gas bottle
• an oven or similar e-waste
• batteries.

As soon as the fire was detected, the truck’s operator stopped the vehicle in a safe place in Richmond near the University of Melbourne Burnley Campus before the trucks’ contents were emptied and extinguished by Fire Rescue Victoria.

No one was injured as a result of the fire. The dumped material has been removed and the truck suffered fire damage that will require repairs.

A City of Boroondara spokesperson said:

“We’re grateful no one was injured from this scary incident, which highlights how important it is to be mindful when filling your bins.

“Fires like this have the potential spread incredibly quickly, putting lives in danger, especially during the summer.

“Chemicals, batteries and e-waste should never be put in a kerbside bin and may be safely recycled or disposed of at numerous sites across Melbourne.

“These types of fires are becoming more common and can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage each time.”

Where to drop off your e-waste

Make sure you recycle your e-waste the correct way. Keep our community safe by disposing of:

• large e-waste items at Boroondara Recycling and Waste Centre, located at 648 Riversdale Road Camberwell
• small e-waste items at our local drop-off locations, including libraries and leisure centres.