While it may sound unusual, pets are often linked to accidental home fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), pets are responsible for nearly 1,000 house fires annually in the U.S.

In response, Hyundai Motor, Kia, LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI, and SK On have formed a joint task force — a rare collaboration among fierce competitors — to develop and deploy advanced safety technologies.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that 19 people died in his state, with most fatalities occurring in Laurel County, about 130 miles southeast of Louisville. Seven people were killed in Missouri, while Virginia reported two deaths.

Residents have expressed concerns about the proximity of these facilities to homes, citing potential safety hazards. An online petition initiated by local resident Valerie Vislocky has garnered over 800 signatures, urging an immediate halt to the install.

The recent wildfires in Southern California have introduced a significant challenge in the cleanup process: the safe handling and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, prevalent in electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones and laptops.

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has taken several steps in recent years to mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires, which are particularly concerning due to their potential to ignite rapidly and release toxic fumes.