Roseville, California – Roseville officials issued a warning about the dangers of improperly discarded lithium-ion batteries after a fire erupted inside a garbage truck during a routine collection route.

Video released by the city shows flames igniting within seconds after a lithium-ion battery was crushed inside the truck’s compactor.

Officials said the incident was the fourth garbage truck fire reported since the beginning of the year.

City authorities warned that the fires create serious dangers for drivers, sanitation crews, equipment, and the wider community.

“A split-second decision can change everything,” officials said in a statement released with the video.

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in power tools, laptops, e-bikes, cellphones, and other rechargeable devices. Officials said damaged or crushed batteries can spark and rapidly catch fire.

Residents were reminded never to place batteries in trash or recycling carts. Authorities advised people to tape battery terminals before disposal and bring batteries to the city’s Materials Recovery Facility or another approved recycling site.

“Our crews are out there every day helping keep the community clean and safe,” officials said. “Preventing fires like this starts at home.”

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