Family Displaced After Dog Ignites Lithium-Ion Battery in Ski Glove

Ottawa firefighters responded to a house fire on Thursday morning caused by a dog chewing on a heated ski glove containing a lithium-ion battery. The incident highlights the potential fire risk associated with these batteries if damaged or improperly handled.

What Happened?

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) were alerted to a fire at a home on Bevington Walk in Orléans.the alarm was initially triggered by a home security system, which also notified the homeowner who confirmed the fire via security footage. Passersby also reported the blaze to 911. Firefighters arrived within four minutes to find smoke and flames coming from a ground-floor window.

Firefighters quickly located and rescued the family dog, who was unharmed. The fire was brought under control within approximately 10 minutes. Though, an adult and a child were displaced from their home as an inevitable result of the damage.

The Role of the Lithium-Ion Battery

Security camera footage revealed the cause of the fire: the family dog had begun chewing on a heated ski glove containing a lithium-ion battery. The chewing damaged the battery, leading to ignition and sparking a fire that spread to a nearby blanket.

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Concerns

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are commonly found in a wide range of devices, including:

• Smartphones
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Power tools
• E-bikes
• Heated clothing (like gloves and jackets)

When damaged, punctured, crushed, or improperly handled, lithium-ion batteries can experience what is known as thermal runaway, a chain reaction that can led to overheating, fire, and even explosion.

Safety recommendations from Ottawa Fire Services

OFS is urging residents to take the following precautions to prevent similar incidents:

• Store items containing lithium-ion batteries safely.
• Keep batteries and devices out of reach of children and pets.
• Immediately stop using and properly dispose of any battery or device that shows signs of damage, swelling, overheating, or malfunction.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery risks

Lithium-ion batteries are powerful and convenient, but their inherent chemical properties require careful handling. Damage to the battery’s internal components can create a short circuit,leading to a rapid release of energy in the form of heat.This can ignite the battery’s flammable electrolyte, causing a fire.

Looking Ahead

As lithium-ion batteries become increasingly prevalent in everyday devices, it’s crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate safety measures. Proper storage, handling, and disposal are essential to prevent fires and ensure the safety of your home and family.