A family in Burke County experienced a frightening event when a children’s book in their vehicle burst into flames on August 25. The source of ignition was identified as a battery within the "CoComelon J. J. ‘s Potty Time" book, which was left underneath a child's car seat in the family's minivan. According to WBTV, investigators initially deduced that a lithium battery had overheated, causing the fire that went on to significantly damage the car seat. However, the book’s publisher later clarified that the batteries involved were not of the lithium variety.
The incident occurred shortly after Destiny Williams and her daughter Misty returned home from church. Noticing smoke emanating from their vehicle, a neighbor quickly alerted the Williams family. They managed to quickly extinguish the fire using a garden hose. "A neighbor noticed smoke coming from the family’s vehicle and warned them," Destiny Williams explained in a statement obtained by WBTV. Subsequent photos showed the extent of the damage, with the child’s car seat burnt through at the bottom.
Thankfully, Misty was not present in the vehicle at the time of the blaze and therefore avoided injury. The fire prompted responses from the local fire department, who quickly took action. George Hildebran Fire & Rescue reported to the scene and addressed the fire, which had started after the family had vacated the minivan. Once under control, it was confirmed by firefighters that the battery had become too hot, resulting in combustion, as mentioned on WCNC.
The publisher's statement regarding the composition of the batteries may prompt a broader discussion about the materials and safeguards integrated within consumer goods, especially those designed for children. "They were able to extinguish the fire with a hose before first responders arrived," relayed Williams, according to the report from WBTV. More information on battery safety and consumer product guidelines can be to consult on the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website.
