Dog Sets House on Fire After Chewing a Lithium Battery: VIDEO

Tulsa, Oklahoma - In a startling incident that underscores the hidden dangers of everyday household items, a dog in Tulsa, Oklahoma, inadvertently sparked a house fire by chewing on a lithium-ion battery. The incident, which occurred in May, was captured on video and has since been released by the Tulsa Fire Department to raise awareness about the potential hazards posed by these common power sources.

The video footage reveals a seemingly innocuous scene: a dog, curious and playful, gnaws on a portable cellphone battery pack. Within moments, the battery begins to emit sparks, quickly igniting a fire on a pet bed where the dog was playing. As the flames spread, two other pets—a dog and a cat—are seen fleeing the smoke-filled room through a dog door, escaping unharmed. Fortunately, despite the significant damage to the home, all the pets survived the ordeal without injury.

Andy Little, a spokesperson for the Tulsa Fire Department, emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the outcome could have been far more tragic. "The pets were lucky to have a means of escape," Little stated, highlighting the potential for disaster had the family been asleep or if the pets had been trapped inside. He described lithium-ion battery fires as a "critical issue" affecting fire departments nationwide, citing their ability to store a large amount of energy in a compact space. When damaged, overcharged, or exposed to extreme heat, these batteries can release energy uncontrollably, generating heat, flammable gases, and even explosions.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for caution when handling lithium-ion batteries, which are prevalent in many household devices, from cellphones to laptops. Little urged the public to adhere to manufacturer guidelines, use only approved chargers, and store batteries out of reach of children and pets. Additionally, he advised against disposing of these batteries in regular trash or recycling bins, recommending instead that they be taken to designated recycling centers or hazardous waste collection points.

The Tulsa Fire Department's release of the video aims to educate the public on the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries, which have been implicated in numerous fires across the country. The department's proactive approach reflects a growing concern among fire safety officials about the risks associated with these energy-dense power sources.

In addition to the fire risk, local veterinarian Dr. Troy McNamara warned of the dangers to pets who chew on or swallow batteries. The toxic battery acid can cause physical harm, and if ingested, batteries can become lodged in a pet’s stomach or intestines, leading to serious health issues. Dr. McNamara advised pet owners to seek immediate veterinary care if their animal shows signs of battery poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing.

As technology continues to evolve and the use of lithium-ion batteries becomes even more widespread, incidents like the one in Tulsa underscore the importance of public awareness and safety precautions. The Tulsa Fire Department's efforts to highlight these dangers are a crucial step in preventing future accidents and ensuring the safety of both people and pets.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unexpected hazards that can arise from everyday items in our homes. By taking simple precautions and staying informed, individuals can help mitigate these risks and protect their families and pets from potential harm.