October is Fire Prevention Month, and SWACO is marking the occasion with new technology to protect employees, haulers and the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill itself.
All three of SWACO’s waste collection facilities (Jackson Pike Transfer Station, Morse Road Transfer Station and the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill) have experienced and dealt with fires of varying magnitude over the years, making proactive fire prevention a priority. The new Fire Rover On-Watch system now monitors the landfill 24/7, using thermal and smoke detection to spot fires before they spread. When the system detects a threat, it immediately alerts both the fire department and SWACO staff.
As a benefit, this fire management system helps SWACO avoid adding to its environmental footprint since it utilizes the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill’s open layout and solar-powered operations.
The Fire Rover system is already fully operational at Jackson Pike Transfer Station, where it’s been running for over three months. Following construction at Morse Road Transfer Station next spring, that facility will get its own Fire Rover suppression system, completing coverage across all SWACO transfer stations.
The combination of technology and better disposal habits makes a real difference. Faster detection means quicker response times, which translates to fewer disruptions and safer conditions for everyone involved in waste management operations.
Beyond The Landfill
Many landfill fires trace back items that don’t belong in the trash. Power tool batteries, lithium-ion batteries and other household hazardous waste can ignite when crushed or moved around during normal operations.
That’s where residents come in. Proper disposal of these materials helps prevent fires before they start.
SWACO’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility accepts batteries, paint, chemicals and other household hazardous materials and the SWACO Recycling Convenience Center provides safe disposal for hard-to-recycle materials like appliances as well.
Taking steps to dispose of items correctly protects the employees, haulers and the environment.
For information about proper disposal of household hazardous waste or to find a drop-off location, visit www.recycleright.org