ICYMI: Charging Phone Between Couch Cushions Sparks Fire in Pennsylvania Home
A phone charging between couch cushions ignited a dangerous fire—here’s what you need to know before plugging in overnight! 🌐 #News #ButlerCountyPA #Pennsylvania #Accident
BUTLER COUNTY, PA – A quiet night nearly turned tragic in a Pennsylvania home when a cell phone, left charging between couch cushions, triggered a house fire early Wednesday morning. Firefighters are now sounding the alarm about the hidden dangers of charging electronic devices on soft surfaces.
The Adams Area Fire District (AAFD) reported that the fire broke out at around 1:20 a.m. in the town of Mars, located in Adams Township. Police officers arrived first and found smoke coming from a second-story bedroom. Fire crews quickly followed, discovering the fire isolated to a couch in the bedroom. Thankfully, the blaze was contained and extinguished before it could spread further.
Phone Left Charging Between Couch Cushions Sparks Fire
Fire officials determined the source of the fire: a charging cell phone that had been wedged between the cushions of the couch alongside a blanket. According to the AAFD, the trapped heat from the phone’s battery ignited nearby fabric.
In a public statement, the fire department stressed the importance of charging electronic devices safely. “We at the AAFD would like to strongly advise our residents to never charge any electronic devices such as cell phones, iPads, tablets, or computers on padded furniture or in bed with you, especially while sleeping,” the statement said.
Charging Safety Advice from Firefighters and Experts
The AAFD echoed safety recommendations from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and major manufacturers like Apple and Samsung. These organizations urge users to charge phones and other devices on “a hard, flat, well-ventilated surface” to prevent heat buildup.
“Charging devices on soft surfaces can trap the heat generated by the battery while charging and ignite mattresses, bedding, pillows, and sheets,” the fire department added.
A Close Call and a Warning for Residents
Fortunately, the residents were alerted to the fire in time, and a fast response by first responders minimized the damage. The AAFD praised the quick action but urged others to avoid similar dangers by following safety guidelines.
“We beg all of our residents to please follow the advice of the manufacturer, the NFPA, and us; DO NOT LEAVE ANY CHARGING ELECTRONICS ON ANY SOFT SURFACES OR IN BED WITH YOU!”
This incident shows how easily everyday habits—like leaving your phone to charge—can pose serious risks if not managed carefully.
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