Bernalillo County fire crews respond to trash truck fire

Digital Assignment Editor

Earlier Wednesday, Bernalillo County fire crews responded to a trash truck fire.

They say the fire occurred around 10 a.m. this morning in NE Albuquerque.

It happened near Academy Parkway and Osuna when the driver of the truck realized there was smoke coming from the truck.

Luckily, the driver was able to dump the trash on the street before the truck caught fire.

The cause of the fire is unknown, but Bernalillo County fire officials want to remind the public to help reduce trash fires with these tips:

• Never place hot ashes or charcoal in your trash. Allow them to cool completely — at least 24-48 hours — in a metal container before disposal.

• Keep lithium-ion batteries (from phones, tools, toys, vapes, and other electronics) out of household trash. Recycle them at an approved collection site.

• Do not throw away fireworks that may still be active or smoldering.

• Dispose of pool chemicals, paint, fuels, and other hazardous materials through approved household hazardous waste programs.

• Make sure cigarettes and smoking materials are completely extinguished before throwing them away.