A routine play session turned disastrous in Oklahoma when a pet dog chewed on a lithium-ion battery, igniting a severe house fire. The Tulsa Fire Department (TFD) issued a public safety alert following the incident, which highlights the critical need to keep lithium-ion batteries out of reach of pets and children.
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NEW: Dog starts a house fire in Tulsa, Oklahoma after chewing through a portable lithium-ion battery.
The Tulsa Fire Department released the following video to warn people about the “dangers of lithium-ion batteries.”
Two dogs and a cat were filmed hanging out before one… pic.twitter.com/skTb8YEzJ6
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 6, 2024
Captured by an indoor camera in May, the footage shows two dogs and a cat in a living room. One of the dogs began chewing on a lithium-ion battery pack, causing it to explode and set the house ablaze. Fortunately, the fire department acted swiftly to extinguish the flames. Despite substantial damage to the home, all pets managed to escape safely through a dog door.
“Many people keep these batteries at home without realizing the risks they pose,” Little noted. He stressed the importance of following manufacturer guidelines when using and storing lithium-ion batteries. “Only use approved chargers and store batteries out of reach of children and pets. Proper disposal is also crucial—batteries should not be discarded in household trash or recycling bins due to the risk of fires during transportation. Instead, they should be taken to designated recycling centers or hazardous waste collection points.”
The video of the incident has garnered significant attention online, amassing over 9 million views. Reactions from viewers ranged from relief at the pets’ safety to advice on preventing similar accidents. One user commented, “So happy the pets are okay!” while another advised, “Don’t leave pets home unattended!”
The incident has served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries and the importance of proper safety measures and disposal practices.
