An investigation into a fire at a recycling centre in Widnes that saw 20 fire engines deployed was ‘most likely’ caused by a disposable vape.
An investigation by the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service found that the fire was caused by a damaged lithium-ion battery from a disposable vape that had been placed in general waste or recycling.
When crews arrived at the site, they reported that the fire was spreading rapidly through the single-storey recycling centre, which was approximately 50m x 50m, and causing a heavy plume of smoke.
Chesire Fire & Rescue Service declared a ‘major incident’ in response to the fire, which was stood down before midnight on the same day. All persons on the site were accounted for, and no casualties were reported.
It’s estimated that of the 550 tonnes of waste on the site, around 450 tonnes were involved in the fire, most of which is thought to be cardboard.
Following its investigation, the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service believe the fire was caused when the damaged lithium-ion battery overheated and ignited cardboard awaiting recycling. Strong winds then caused the fire to spread rapidly across the site.
In a statement, the Service said: This was a complex, resource-intensive incident, with crews working tirelessly for several days during the heatwave to bring it under control – thank you to all involved and to the local community for their patience and understanding.”