Several discarded mobile phones are believed to have sparked a blaze in a recycling lorry.
The incident took place at Burgess Hill Recycling Centre on Thursday, January 22 in West Sussex after staff noticed a burning smell coming from the lorry.
Firefighters arrived on the scene and emptied the vehicle, using a thermal imaging camera to locate two smouldering areas.
They then used a high-pressure hose reel to dampen the hotspots.
Crew manager Tony Day said: "Electrical items and batteries should never be thrown away in general waste or recycling bins. They can become damaged from crushing during the collection and sorting process, causing paper, plastics and other materials to catch alight.
"What may start as a small fire can quickly spread and become much larger inside a collection vehicle or at a waste transfer site. This puts staff at risk, disrupts services and can result in significant damage.
"It also puts pressure on our ability to attend other emergencies where lives could be at risk. If you have old electrical items to dispose of you can take them to your local recycling centre.
"Your local district or borough council may also offer a kerbside collection service for batteries and small electricals."
Several mobile phones are believed to have caused the fire.
These batteries can ignite if crushed or damaged.
Further information on disposing of batteries and electrical items safely can be found at westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/dont-let-your-old-electricals-start-a-revolt.
The LIBERATE group, set up by West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, works to share best practice and raise awareness around the dangers of lithium-ion batteries.
The group also monitors trends and aims to reduce risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
It currently includes 220 members from organisations such as fire and rescue services and waste management companies.
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