Watertown, WI – May 29, 2026 – The City of Watertown wishes to alert residents to a serious incident that occurred this morning involving a recently purchased solid waste collection vehicle. Quick action by city staff prevented what could have been a dangerous situation.
While collecting recycling on Pheasant Run, the solid waste truck’s hopper compressed materials from a resident’s cart, causing a lithium battery jump pack to ignite and start a fire. The driver immediately noticed the fire and responded promptly. Crews attempted to extinguish the flames using the city’s water truck and a nearby fire hydrant, but the fire persisted. To safely locate and remove the battery pack, the entire load had to be dumped on city property.
Thankfully, the incident occurred before the vehicle departed for its next route to Whitewater. Had the fire started while the truck was en route, the outcome could have been far more serious.
“Our driver’s attentiveness likely prevented a much larger incident,” said Stacy Winkelman, Street and Solid Waste Division Manager. “We are grateful for his quick response and professionalism. However, we are very disappointed that this occurred. Improper disposal of items like lithium batteries and battery jump packs creates real hazards for our employees and equipment.”
The City of Watertown reminds residents that lithium batteries, battery packs, and other hazardous materials such as cell phones and e-cigs/vapes must not be placed in regular trash or recycling carts. These items can cause fires when crushed or compacted. Residents are encouraged to:
· Take lithium batteries, battery packs, and other hazardous items to designated household hazardous waste collection events or the Street/Solid Waste Division for no charge.
· Never place them in curbside carts.
The City is currently managing the significant cleanup required after dumping a full load of recycling. This incident serves as an important reminder of the need for proper waste disposal to protect public safety and city resources.
The City of Watertown thanks the solid waste staff for their dedication and professionalism in handling this situation.
For more information on proper disposal of hazardous materials, contact the Watertown Public Works Department at (920) 262-4080 or visit www.watertownwi.gov.