M3 lorry fire: No injuries after lithium-ion battery blaze

As previously reported, a lorry transporting lithium-ion batteries and electrical waste burst into flames on the M3 between J4 and J5 at around 5.20am on Wednesday, January 14. The driver of the lorry was able to drop the trailer after plumes of smoke billowed out. Emergency services closed off the road as the blaze was extinguished, with drivers stuck waiting on the motorway for four hours.

Smoke fills the air as emergency services attend the scene (Image: Dell Holmes) Surrey Police has confirmed that no injuries have been reported. A spokesperson said: "Surrey Police is supporting with road closures and we've received no reports of injuries."

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has given a warning about lithium-ion batteries, which are suspected to have caused thhe blaze.

A spokesperson said: "Fires involving lithium-ion batteries are on the rise.

To reduce the risk, always choose trusted electronic products, use them correctly, and dispose of batteries responsibly.Safety advice:

• Buy batteries and devices from reputable manufacturers
• Charge batteries using the correct equipment and follow manufacturer instructions
• Dispose of old, damaged, or unwanted batteries at designated recycling points

"If a battery begins to smoke or catches fire, move away immediately and call 999."