A dog in Tulsa inadvertently caused a house fire after chewing on a portable phone charger, illustrating the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries. Tulsa fire officials are now urging caution with these devices.
Lithium-Ion Battery Sparks Fire After Dog’s Chewing Incident
In a video shared by the Tulsa Fire Department, a dog is seen lying on a mattress, chewing on a portable cellphone charger. As the dog continues to gnaw, the lithium-ion battery inside the charger begins to spark. The startled dog drops the charger and runs away, but seconds later, the battery explodes, setting the mattress on fire. Both dogs and a cat in the video manage to escape through a doggy door, unharmed.
The home sustained significant damage from the fire. Tulsa Fire spokesman Andy Little emphasized the widespread issues with lithium-ion batteries and the importance of keeping them away from pets and children. He also stressed the need to follow proper charging instructions.
Lithium-Ion Battery Hazards and Safety Measures
Lithium-ion batteries can explode due to various factors, including physical damage, extreme heat, overcharging, or using incompatible chargers. “That damage isn’t always visible,” Little noted, highlighting the importance of vigilance.
Batteries typically come with safety mechanisms to prevent overcharging, but these can sometimes fail. Little pointed out that mobile chargers are particularly common in tornado-prone Oklahoma, making it essential to store and handle them correctly.
Improper storage, such as keeping chargers near doors, can also pose risks. In an emergency, a burning battery could block an escape route, especially in an apartment with a single exit.
Proper Disposal and Broader Risks
Even disposing of lithium-ion batteries improperly can lead to fires. Last summer, a series of deadly fires in New York City were linked to lithium-ion batteries in electric bicycles. These higher-energy batteries in e-bikes and scooters present a significant fire hazard. In September, an e-bike battery caused a house fire in Northwest Washington.
The U.S. Fire Administration advises that household lithium-ion batteries should not be exposed to temperatures below freezing or above 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The Federal Aviation Administration recommends using water, not a fire extinguisher, to put out a lithium-ion battery fire.
To minimize risks, experts advise purchasing batteries from reputable stores, looking for UL certification, and being mindful of the battery’s health and charging practices.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries, particularly when left within reach of pets or children. Tulsa fire officials urge the public to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to prevent similar accidents.
