Lithium-ion batteries are hidden inside many things these days including laptops, mobile phones and tablets, electric toothbrushes, vapes and ear buds.

And with even more gadgets and accessories containing these types of batteries available, there is now a greater risk of fires breaking out when they are disposed of as general household waste instead of being taken to the correct recycling centres.

Kirsty McGuire, the council’s Waste and Grounds Strategic Manager, said: “We are seeing an increasing number of fires involving the incorrect disposal of lithium-ion batteries, but they are preventable if everyone understands the dangers and correctly and carefully disposes of these products.

“If not disposed of correctly, these batteries can be crushed or damaged in bin lorries or waste sites which can lead to them catching fire or even exploding.

“And there is a very real danger to our crews being injured whilst collecting contaminated wheelie bins as well as staff and members of the public attending our recycling centres.

“So, we urge everyone to take some simple precautions to avoid the very real dangers that these batteries can cause if incorrectly disposed of.”

Most of your electricals can be taken to any of the six household waste and recycling centres across South Lanarkshire by booking a slot online.

More places to safely dispose of electrical goods can also be found using the electrical recycling locator.

More useful information can also be found on the Fire and Rescue web pages.