DRAMATIC video shows a bin lorry engulfed in flames on a busy London street – which was believed to be caused by discarded cigarette ashes.
The frightening footage shows the brave Biffa driver dumping the flaming load onto the road on Finchley Road, Camden on Friday in order to save his lorry.
Passerby Sean Mizen captured the footage which shows the red Biffa lorry up in flames as smoke billows from the rear of the vehicle.
The driver manages to open the rear of the bin lorry in an attempt to dump the fire onto the road.
As the rear of the vehicle opens up, the back of the vehicle can be seen completely covered in flames.
The driver then dumps the fiery load onto the road as a fire brigade then appears at the scene.
During the clip, Sean can be heard saying: “Oh they drove away from it!”
A large mound of burning material can be seen laying on the ground as smoke continues to emit from the rear of the vehicle as the video ends.
Sean shared his video on Facebook, captioned his post: “Rubbish.”
Since it was posted, the clip has attracted hundreds of likes and comments from viewers who have praised the driver for his efforts.
Mark Wade said: “Quick thinking from the driver.”
William Randall posted: “That’s a good man doing his job and using his brain.
“Most would have just got out and let the truck burn along with whatever set alight. Smart thinking.”
Tony Paduraru commented: “Smart driver, we have to appreciate him for staying calm and emptying the lorry on the floor. It could end up in a disaster. Probably they are trained to do so.”
A spokeswoman for London Fire Brigade today said: “Firefighters were called to a dustcart alight on Finchley Road NW3 on Friday evening.
“A dustcart carrying around a tonne of cardboard was damaged by the fire.
“There were no reports of any injuries.
A spokesman for Biffa today said: “Following Friday nights vehicle fire on Finchley Road, Swiss Cottage we are incredibly thankful our driver was unharmed and nobody was injured.
“All health and safety protocols were followed and we are carrying out an investigation into the incident.
“We’d also like to remind people of the dangers of incorrectly disposing of hazardous waste, which puts both refuse workers and members of the public at risk.”
