Family Dog Sparks House Fire After Chewing Battery-Powered Heated Glove in Ottawa
OTTAWA, Ontario — A family dog was rescued unharmed after inadvertently starting a house fire by chewing on a battery-powered heated glove, Ottawa Fire Services reported on January 12, 2026. The incident occurred in the Orléans neighborhood early Saturday morning, prompting a swift response from emergency crews.
Firefighters were dispatched shortly after 9 a.m. following an alert from a monitoring company that detected an active fire alarm inside the residence. The homeowner, en route to the property, confirmed the presence of smoke and flames via interior security cameras. Additionally, several motorists passing by called 911 to report visible flames emanating from the home.
Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and flames venting from a first-floor bay window. Firefighters launched an aggressive attack to contain the blaze, which had been ignited when the family dog chewed through a lithium-ion battery embedded in a heated glove. The glove, designed to provide warmth through battery power, malfunctioned after being punctured, sparking the fire.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the dog was safely rescued by the responding firefighters. The incident highlights the potential hazards posed by lithium battery-powered devices when damaged, a concern noted by safety experts and fire prevention authorities.
Battery-powered heated gloves have become increasingly popular for outdoor activities in cold climates, but they carry risks if mishandled or damaged. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advises consumers to inspect such devices regularly and keep them out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidents.
Ottawa Fire Services emphasized the importance of having working smoke alarms and security systems, which were instrumental in alerting authorities and the homeowner promptly. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, early detection and rapid response are critical factors in minimizing damage and preventing injuries during residential fires.
Residents are encouraged to review fire safety protocols and ensure that potentially hazardous items, including battery-operated electronics, are stored safely. The National Fire Protection Association provides resources on fire prevention and safe use of lithium-ion batteries.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways household fires can start and the vital role of emergency services in protecting lives and property. Further investigations into the specific circumstances of the fire are ongoing, but authorities have confirmed that the cause was accidental and related to the damaged heated glove.
For more information on fire safety and battery hazards, residents can visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s battery safety guide and local fire department resources.
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