Press Release - Islanders warned of fire risk caused by vape e-cigarettes - 07.09.23

Media Release
Date: September 7^th 2023
Issued at 10:45 hrs

Islanders warned of fire risk caused by vape e-cigarettes

The States of Alderney has warned users of e-cigarettes and disposable vapes of the fire risk caused by lithium batteries in discarded products and has provided dedicated waste bins at the Recycling Centre and the Impôt.

The lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are a potential fire hazard, especially in the case of cheaper batteries in disposable vapes.

In the UK, the batteries are responsible for around 48% of all waste fires costing the UK economy some £158m annually, according to research by Eunomia Research & Consulting.

"A fire in the recycling centres or in one of the various waste handling trucks or bins is not only a risk to States Works staff and the fire teams, but may also lead to significant costs and a temporary reduction in the Island's waste handling services," said General Services Committee Chair, Lin Maurice.

"E-cigarettes and vapes should not be disposed of in general household waste or public bins. Instead, dedicated waste bins have been provided at the Recycling Centre and the Impôt.  

"We hope everyone who uses vapes will take heed and use the special bins provided to protect our people and the Island."

Alderney's Estates Environment & Infrastructure Manager Rich Phelan has placed notices and the bins at the Recycling Centre and the Impôt. For further information and advice, please contact States Works, swd@alderney.gov.gg

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