Warning after battery sparks bin lorry fire in Glasgow

Residents have been urged to recycle batteries properly after a bin lorry went on fire on a busy Glasgow city centre street.

Waste from the lorry had to be unloaded onto the city’s Jamaica Street on Wednesday morning after crews realised the truck was alight.

It is believed to be the eighth fire like this so far this year.

Glasgow City Council said it was “vital” that people recycle their batteries properly, and did not put them into general waste.

GMB trade union convenor Chris Mitchell described the incident – which happened at about 07:50 – as a “warning”.

“We are just one fire away from a disaster to be honest,” he said.

“Everyone has a responsibility to put the proper materials in the bins when they are emptying their rubbish.

“We are unsure where the electrical goods came from but the fire started after the bins at the student accommodation were emptied.

“I would urge people to be mindful of what they are putting in these bins, especially electrical goods. We have fantastic commercial and bulk uplift or recycling centres where it can be disposed of safely.”