A lithium battery charging in a bedroom caused a fire that heavily damaged a Le Mars home Saturday evening, according to Le Mars Fire-Rescue.
Fire crews were called around 6:43 p.m. to 3311 Sadona Hills South, home of Bryce and Janelle Raveling, and arrived to find flames spreading through the back and roof of the house. No one was home, and the family’s dog and cat escaped safely.
Two firefighters were injured — one with back pain and another who partially fell through a floor — but both were treated at the scene and are okay. The home’s main floor and contents were largely destroyed, with losses estimated at $475,000.
Investigators determined the blaze was accidental, caused by lithium batteries that exploded while charging.
Sioux County Emergency Management echoed the safety warning, urging residents to:
-Charge batteries on hard, nonflammable surfaces
-Avoid charging while asleep or away
-Call 911 if a battery smokes or swells
Fire Chief David Schipper said such incidents are becoming more common nationwide. Local law enforcement, nearby fire departments – including those from Orange City and Sioux Center, Merrill Ambulance, and R.E.C. assisted Le Mars Fire-Rescue.
