Chilliwack – In a Facebook post on August 5 from Valley Waste & Recycling Inc.:
An Important Safety Message: On Tuesday August 5, Valley Waste & Recycling Inc. had to close their transfer station due to a blaze that ignited in under 7 minutes — caused by lithium batteries that were thrown into regular garbage.
This is the second fire in just two months, and while they’re incredibly grateful that no one was hurt, it’s a serious reminder of how dangerous improper battery disposal can be.
Lithium batteries can ignite or explode when crushed, putting our team, equipment, and community at risk.
Please help them and others prevent future incidents: never throw batteries in the garbage or recycling bin.
Instead, bring them to a proper battery recycling drop-off — available at most recycling depots and electronics stores.
A huge thank you to the Chilliwack Fire Department for their quick and professional response.
Please note: their transfer station will remain closed for the rest of Tuesday as they assess damage and ensure it’s safe to reopen.
