In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a canine’s encounter with a lithium-ion battery ignited a severe house fire, highlighting the inherent dangers of these common household items. Captured on video and shared on the Tulsa Fire Department’s Facebook page, the incident unfolded when the dog began chewing on the battery, mistaking it for a toy, while lounging on one of two floor cushions in the living room.
The footage shows the dog gnawing fiercely just as sparks fly from the battery. Another dog lounges on a couch nearby, and a cat sits on the floor. As the gnawing canine retreats, the cushion it had been on bursts into flames. Both dogs observe the rapidly spreading fire with growing curiosity and alarm.
According to the Tulsa Fire Department, the fire significantly damaged the residence in May, though the pets managed to escape unscathed through a pet door. Fire department spokesman Andy Little explained that the battery being chewed on was intended for charging cell phones. He emphasized that lithium-ion batteries are designed to store a considerable amount of energy in a small space. When this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate intense heat, emit flammable and toxic gases, and potentially lead to explosions.
Little further commented that these batteries can become hazardous when damaged, overcharged, or subjected to extreme temperatures. Fortunately, due to the quick escape of the pets, no injuries were reported.
