Tulsa Fire Dept. warns against mishandling lithium-ion batteries

TULSA, Okla. — The Tulsa Fire Department is warning residents about the dangers caused by lithium-ion batteries if not handled properly.

Andy Little with the Tulsa Fire Department said these batteries hold a significant amount of energy in a compact space.

"When this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate heat, produce flammable and toxic gasses and even lead to explosions," Little explained.

The department said a house caught fire in May due to an animal chewing on a cell phone charger holding a lithium-ion battery.

TFD released video from inside the home showing the dog chewing on the charger until it sparked and exploded, causing the dog bed it was laying on to catch fire.

Fortunately, all the animals in the home escaped through a dog door, leaving them uninjured.

"The outcome could have been much worse if there had been no means of escape or if the family was asleep at the time," Little said.

Little said it's crucial for those using these batteries to adhere to manufacturer guidelines to ensure they are doing what they can to avoid any accidental fire or injuries. This includes storing devices using them out of reach of animals and children and making sure to dispose of them correctly, when no longer of use.

TFD provided two battery recycling options:

Household Pollutant Collection Facility at 918-596-2100 or click here for a residential recycling directory.