A warning has been issued to pet owners after a dog almost caused a lithium-battery fire.<\/p>\n
Braunton Fire Station was called out on Friday to reports of a burning smell inside a family home in Willingcott Valley, Woolacombe, but firefighters initially could not find a visible blaze or source.<\/p>\n
After a search they discovered the cause of the burning smell was due to the family’s dog picking up a battery – which can cause fires when damaged<\/a> – from a child’s toy and chewing it in its bed.<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Some of the dog’s bedding was burnt as a result, with the fire service urging people to keep loose batteries away from pets and children.<\/p>\n Firefighters said the number of incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, which are found in items including toys, vapes and car key fobs, have increased in recent years.<\/p>\n “Thankfully the cause was discovered early and didn’t develop further, but it could very easily have been a different outcome,” the fire service added.<\/p>\n “At Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, we’re seeing more incidents involving lithium batteries and this is a great example of how everyday situations can escalate quickly.<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n “A really positive outcome, but one that serves as a reminder to stay aware.”<\/p>\n Follow BBC Devon on X<\/a>, Facebook<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\n More on this storyRelated internet links