A Stevenage recycling lorry returned to the council's depot with smoke coming from the rear, prompting safety concerns. Last week's incident led to the contents of the vehicle being emptied into a safe area and sorted through. A battery, which had combusted, was found. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of improper battery disposal. Batteries should never be put in kerbside bins, as they can cause fires in dustcarts. Instead, residents should recycle their batteries responsibly at recycling centres or local collection points. This is a crucial step in maintaining a safe and environmentally friendly community. The council is urging residents to take this matter seriously and to dispose of batteries properly. By doing so, we can prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The council is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all residents, and this includes proper waste management. Residents can help by taking the necessary steps to recycle their batteries correctly. This is a simple yet effective way to contribute to a safer and more sustainable community. The council will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from happening again. In the meantime, residents are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. By working together, we can create a safer and more responsible community.