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Preventing Fires from Lithium Batteries and Other Pet Risks

January 14, 2025

Alpha Vets’ Darren Partridge is highlighting fire dangers to pet owners in Greater London, after a variety of new gadgets will have entered homes over the holiday season.

Pets are naturally curious creatures, and their inquisitiveness can sometimes lead to dangerous situations, particularly when it comes to electrical items and lithium-ion batteries. Found in everyday devices that you may have bought or received recently, like mobile phones, power banks, laptops, and vapes, these batteries can become a significant fire hazard if damaged. 

Call 999 for the Emergency Services

Call Alpha Vets if you need Emergency Pet Care in and around Teddington on 0208 943 2303.

Out of hours, your call will be answered by our own Emergency Team at North Surrey Veterinary Emergencies in East Molesey.

We support many local vet practices in the area by providing emergency pet care to their clients when they are closed. See a list of vet practices we support here.

See our emergency care information

 

Why lithium batteries pose a danger

Lithium-ion batteries power many household gadgets due to their compact size and high energy output. However, if punctured or damaged, they can release toxic gas and trigger a process called thermal runaway. This reaction causes the battery cells to overheat and collapse in a domino effect, leading to intense fires that can spread rapidly.

Do you know what type of batteries are in your new gadgets? 

Be prepared with Alpha Vets’ Fire Evacuation Plan – download now.

Potential risks for pets

Vet Darren Partridge explains that dogs and cats explore their surroundings with their mouths and paws. A pet might mistake a battery-powered device left on a sofa or table, such as a mobile phone or vape, for a chew toy. If bitten or punctured, the battery could release a harmful gas and spark a fire, putting the whole family and homes at serious risk.

Pets can also accidentally cause fires in other ways. For example, dogs have been known to turn on electric hobs, and cats can knock over electronic devices, blocking ventilation and causing overheating.

Steps to minimise risks

To help you protect your human and pet family, the team at Alpha Vets have put together a list of actions you can take. Plus,

Download our Fire Evacuation Plan

 

1. Secure devices

  • Darren advises you to first understand which gadgets in your home have lithium-ion batteries in them, such as laptops, power banks, and vapes.
  • Keep gadgets out of reach – store them in secure drawers or high shelves when not in use.
  • Avoid leaving items with batteries on sofas, tables, or other areas accessible to pets.

2. Unplug and turn off appliances

  • Turn off appliances like electric hobs and portable heaters at the mains when leaving your home in Greater London.
  • Avoid running washing machines or dishwashers unattended, as curious pets might interfere with these devices.

3. Inspect cables and chargers

  • Check regularly for frayed wires or damaged plugs, as these can pose both fire and electrical risks to pets.
  • Secure loose cables to prevent chewing.

4. Store batteries safely

  • Keep spare lithium batteries in secure cases or containers.
  • Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures, which can increase the risk of malfunction.

5. Create a pet-safe environment

  • Provide appropriate chew toys to deter pets from nibbling on dangerous objects.
  • Darren says it is also wise to set up cosy spots away from warm electronics like laptops or gaming consoles.

For more advice on how to keep your pet safely entertained, contact our vet practice in Teddington on 0208 943 2303.

Why prevention matters

Fires caused by damaged lithium-ion batteries can spread faster than traditional fires, leaving little time to react. Darren stresses the importance of creating a safe environment for both people and pets, as proactive measures can help prevent disasters and protect lives. A few simple adjustments can make your home a safer place for everyone. Having an effective evacuation plan for the whole family is a wise move too.

See our emergency care information