Dog Chewing on Lithium Battery Causes House Fire: A Cautionary Tale

The Perils of Lithium Ion Batteries

On May 1, 2024, at 11:10 AM, a dog in Tulsa, Oklahoma, sparked a house fire after chewing on a lithium battery. Fortunately, all the pets in the house were able to escape unharmed, but the incident highlights the potential dangers posed by these batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries are common power sources for a wide range of devices, including laptops, cell phones, and power tools. However, they can also be dangerous if they are not handled properly. When they are punctured or damaged, they can release a large amount of heat and energy, which can start a fire.

Dog's Actions Cause Fire

In the Tulsa incident, the dog in the home chewed through the casing of a lithium-ion battery, exposing the battery's internal components. This caused the battery to short-circuit and release the heat and energy that started the fire.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns that fires caused by batteries are becoming more common. In 2022, the NFPA estimated that there were over 50,000 battery-related fires in the United States.

Preventing Battery Fires

To prevent battery fires, the NFPA recommends the following:

Keep batteries away from children and pets.

Do not puncture or damage batteries.

Do not expose batteries to heat or water.

Dispose of batteries properly.

Only use batteries that are specifically designed for the device you are using.

By following these safety tips, you can help prevent a battery fire in your home.