A video has surfaced showing a house fire in Tulsa, Oklahoma, that was sparked after a dog chewed on a cell phone battery pack.
In May, the Tulsa Fire Department responded to a fire caused by a damaged lithium-ion battery. The footage shows a dog gnawing on the battery, which eventually exploded and ignited a fire on what appears to be a pet bed.
As flames and smoke filled the home, two dogs stood nearby, but they, along with a cat, managed to escape uninjured through a dog door, according to the fire department.
Related
"Fire departments nationwide are encountering fires related to these batteries, and we want the public to be informed about their use, safe storage, and proper disposal," the department emphasized.
Tulsa Fire officials caution that lithium-ion batteries, which are responsible for fires across the country, can quickly lead to dangerous situations.
"Lithium-ion batteries are known for storing a large amount of energy in a small space," said Tulsa Fire public information officer Andy Little. "However, when this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate heat, produce flammable and toxic gases, and even result in explosions. Many people keep these batteries in their homes for convenience, unaware of the potential dangers they pose."
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube