Discarded battery likely cause of major Ipswich scrapyard fire, investigators say

The big picture: Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service investigators believe a battery in a pile of scrap metal likely triggered the fire at Sackers in Gipping Road. Batteries in scrap can self-combust when crushed, igniting surrounding flammable materials.

Key details:

• The fire at Sackers in Gipping Road required 14 fire engines and about 80 firefighters from Suffolk and Norfolk to bring it under control.

• Local residents and businesses were advised to keep doors and windows closed for nearly 24 hours due to a massive smoke plume.

• Train services from Ipswich to Norwich, Cambridge and Ely were cancelled due to the potential danger from the fire to the adjacent railway track.

Why it matters: This fire highlights the growing concern over improper battery disposal and its potential to cause significant disruptions and safety hazards.

Zooming out:

• The National Fire Chiefs Council reports that lithium-ion batteries in household waste led to over 1,200 fires in the UK waste system in the past year, up from 700 in 2022.

• Proper battery disposal is crucial for preventing such incidents and ensuring public safety.

What they're saying:

Councillor Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: "This was a major incident that caused massive disruption to a great many people and saw firefighters put themselves potentially in harm's way as they bravely dealt with it. We all use batteries, we all benefit from them, and therefore it is everyone's responsibility to dispose of them safely."

What you can do:

• Recycle waste batteries and electrical items at any of Suffolk's 11 Recycling Centres, local recycling banks, or participating supermarkets.

• Pay special attention to smaller, frequently used electricals like toothbrushes, shavers, chargers, and toys.

• Visit the Suffolk Waste Partnership website for more information on proper recycling practices.