Gray Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire on the 200 block of Old Clinton Road at 5:26 p.m., arriving to find heavy fire conditions at the rear of the home. GFD E71 and C70 arrived at 5:28 p.m. Crews quickly initiated an aggressive fire attack, established a water supply, and successfully contained and extinguished the fire confining it to two rooms.
All occupants had safely evacuated prior to fire department arrival and were evaluated on scene. No injuries were reported.
The fire caused significant damage to the back porch and portions of the interior, with smoke damage throughout the residence. Firefighters conducted ventilation and overhaul operations to ensure the fire was fully extinguished and the structure was safe.
Gray Fire Department was assisted on scene by Gray Police Department and Jones County Fire Department. All agencies worked together seamlessly to serve and protect the community.
Following an investigation conducted with assistance from Baldwin County Fire Department, the fire has been classified as accidental. The investigation determined the fire was likely caused by a lithium-ion battery from a tool experiencing thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway occurs when a lithium-ion battery rapidly overheats, potentially leading to fire, extreme heat, or even explosion. Once initiated, this reaction can spread to other battery cells, allowing the fire to grow quickly and intensify.
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in everyday items such as power tools, cell phones, laptops, and rechargeable devices, including some vape products using 18650 batteries. While generally safe, the risk of fire increases when batteries are damaged, improperly charged, or used with non-approved equipment.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips:
• Useonlymanufacturer-approvedand UL-listed chargers and batteries.
• Avoidchargingbatteriesovernightor unattended
• Chargeonhard,non-flammable surfaces
• Keepbatteriesawayfromcombustible materials
• Replacebatteriesthataredamaged, swollen, or overheating
• Storebatteriesinacool,dryplace Fires involving lithium-ion batteries can escalate rapidly and produce intense heat and toxic smoke. Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury and property damage.
For more fire safety information, contact the City of Gray Fire Department at 478-936-7119.
