Kids and Character Fire Safety Introduction - video 1

[@markkallmeyer194]

Thank you for this advice. I remembered a few large plastic jugs of batteries in my elderly fathers garage so I went down to check on them. Not only where there several 9 volts some taped, some not, but many had exploded battery acid all over! You made a difference in our home! Thank you again!!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Hi everyone - Dave from the videos here. I have to tell you, I haven't looked at my page in a while and I was shocked to see so many of you helping to share our message about fire safety. Thanks for all of the kind comments for for helping spread the word. I'll get more videos posted in the next day. Blessings to all and stay safe!

[@jewellholden9040]

I used to carry AA batteries in my purse because I had a work pager that required batteries and I kept them there to have handy. One day I smelled something in my purse that smelled like something burning. I clear out my purse and discovered that the positive and negative ends had touched and were getting hot. Now I am very careful about storing all types and sizes of batteries. I keep them in the plastic container they come in and am careful that they all face the same direction.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Jewell - I'm glad you were safe. Thanks for the tip! - Dave

[@chuckb7649]

When I was younger, I had a job which required me to carry around various items. One day, I had a 9 volt battery and a metal box cutter in my vest pocket. It amazed me then just how much heat can be produced by that combination in just a few seconds. I have the burn scar to prove it. An excellent video and tutorial.

[@markholmes7875]

Dave, thanks for posting this video. When I was about 8, I had a 6 volt lantern battery sitting in my closet. Just playing around, I connected both terminals with a paperclip because it fit just perfectly. When I picked it up a few hours later, that battery was HOT and I thought it would explode. I used a pencil or something to break the connection and it cooled down. I was a budding geek, interested in computers, electronics and such... I was just experimenting like kids do. This was one of many things I learned not to do twice. :)

[@policeandfiremensinsurance1262]

Dave, I would like to help spread your message. I am the editor of Police and Firemen's Insurance Association's quarterly magazine, The Protector. Would you be interested in working with me on an article to help spread the dangers of batteries? I find your story very compelling and would very much like to help. Thanks, Angela

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I want to give a HUGE thanks to the KZbin community. I am incredibly humbled by the fact that so many of you are willing to help my family and I spread the word about fire safety. As we approach 300,000 views, I just can't believe how this has grown. My family and I have been presenting this information to local businesses and government organizations to create awareness. In a year, we have talked to hundreds of people, but not thousands. Your support has accomplished more than we could ever do on our own. Thanks for helping us teach about fire safety. You are all amazing! - Dave PS: Please check out our other fire safety videos. You can seem them all here: kzbin.info .

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Great - thanks for spreading the word! - Dave

[@motorbikematt]

This vid was emailed to me from two friends and gosh, my heart sunk watching it. So sorry you're going through this, but good attitude for trying to help others as an example.

[@gilray49]

I lost my home and pets to a fire in 2010. I spend a lot of time telling people to 1. check electrical cords for damage. (If it does not run smoothly through your hand, tape it or replace it.) 2. Have fire alarms that alert the Fire Dept if you are not home or unconscious (I was at work during the day when it started.) This information is new to me, and I will be sharing it widely. Thank you for using your painful experience to save lives.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Matthew F Reyes Thanks Matthew. I appreciate the encouragement! - Dave

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Chrystal Hays Chrystal, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I also think your advice is extremely valuable. I agree with you on having a monitored alarm system. My new house is set up that way so the fire department will be called even if we aren't home. It's worth the expense. All my best to you and thanks for your service helping others! - Dave

[@amommamust]

Dave, the fact you "feel responsible" shows you are an awesome human. Owning up to mistakes is never fun, but not only did you own your mistake, you used it to grow, and to help others grow. I just reached into my battery drawer and found 2 9 volts lying one on top of the other. I can't really say you just prevented my house from burning down, but you made me do something to prevent it in the future. THANK YOU.

[@PamelaRachil]

So sorry for what you had to go through, but you and your message are a blessing to everyone who hears this. I had no idea and am going to check my battery drawer right now because I too have these 9V batteries mingled with others. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@kenmack2265]

Pamela, Agree 100% with your thoughts and comments. Hopefully millions of people will become aware of this danger and be able to prevent a serious incident. Ken

[@bobmccarthy3202]

As a retired member of Detroit Fire I encourage all to listen to this very short video on Home Fire Safety. There are always new ideas that in fact may save another's life and property. This is one very valuable example!

[@MonkeyDoodleCartel]

Dave, no, it is not your fault, not even close. Until you shared this, who knew? I've got all kinds of batteries I am going to handle differently from now on. Thank you for your courage. You are a hero! Doug

[@MrRillist]

you mean Dave ?

[@thatguyandhisdog]

MrRillist I think the guy responding's name is Doug. He used Dave at the beginning

[@kenmack2265]

Doug, Agree 100%. Never knew tis until today. Hope this information is seen by millions. Ken

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for the kind words Doug. I'm not a hero by any means but I'm glad the word is getting out. I'll get more videos up soon. I learned a lot going through this fire! - Dave

[@klhound]

I am posting this on my FB so that my extended family can pass it onto the 1,000's of their friends. This is information everyone needs to know. Thank you Dave for the video and I thank God for keeping you safe.

[@YeahRight825]

Well that's Irony for you. 9-Volt Batteries that he used specifically for Fire Detectors to protect him and his family from a fire which could burn his house down, was the exact cause of what burnt his house down. Nonetheless, GREAT information, and thanks for taking the time for sharing your experience to help save other lives.

[@terrykieffer7025]

The video showing the house fire caused by a 9 volt battery was excellent. I'm a volunteer fireman and I never heard of any issues during the academy or monthly trainings of terminals from old batteries touching one and other and shorting. I will pass this on to everyone I know. Thanks

[@Dobemandan]

You're doing a great service with this video!! You've got me out of bed to tape my old batts. So sorry for your hardship but keep up the good work spreading this important message. Thank you!!!

[@Kevierae]

Wow! I manage an apartment building and what you described is exactly how I "store" old 9 volt smoke alarm batteries! I will take them out today and tape them all. I'm so glad you & your family are OK. Thank you very much for caring enough to warn the rest of us! Bless you!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I'm so glad you are taking care of the batteries. Thanks for taking such good care of your apartment building. Everyone there is safer tonight! - Dave

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks you. I have a small pile of these batteries in my garage right now. After this watching this video I am going out there and taping all the old batteries. I take pride in having no oily rags or combustables anywhere. I missed this one. Thank you, you may have saved a fire and a lot more. Bruce Pender BTHVERSION!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Hi Bruce, you sound just like me. I thought I was being safe but never considered a small battery a danger. I'm glad to hear you are taping those batteries. Take care. - Dave

[@mentallarry]

Dave, thank you so much for sharing this critical information! For myself the timing is surreal, just last week my elderly uncle handed me a battery that was scalding hot, I couldn't for the life of me figure out why this 9v battery he had pulled out from his pocket was so hot I couldn't even hold it in my hand! Anyway, I'm very glad your family is safe, as devastating as loosing your home is, it will be rebuilt, family members cannot be replaced. Thank you again.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for the well wishes Larry. We are doing great now and life is back to normal. I'm glad you can share this message with your family, especially with your uncle. Take care - Dave

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I just can't believe it. Because of you, we are really making progress on spreading our warning about the dangers of battery fires. In fact, our videos have now been viewed in nearly every country in the world. I simply could not have done this without the support of amazing people like you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing our videos with family and friends! Despite all of our progress, I'm still hearing from people who just don't believe it is possible to start a fire with a 9 volt battery. I have to admit, I never thought it was possible until my house burned down. One positive result of the controversy is that several TV stations have used our video as the basis of their own story. I think this type of independent confirmation will really help. I shared a story from KCTV5 in Kansas City on our Facebook page. facebook.com/kidsandcharacter Stay safe and thanks for all of the support you have shown by helping spread the word about fire safety! Dave

[@paulakunz1487]

Your message made me raise my head and pay close attention to your video. We have been recycling battery's for years and do what you use to do. Throw the old battery's into a plastic bag in the garage and when full turn them into a recycle center. Thanks to you we have now changed this habit. Thank you and I am forwarding this message not only with friends but with our senior club.

[@ChristySandhoff]

Learn something new everyday.

[@LoriSeekamp]

thank you for sharing this information. the wires on the refrigerator was the reason for the house fire my family suffered when i was a young girl. sending love to you and your family and much success to your mission of sharing this important information.

[@ShOwStOpp3rr]

wow who knew,,,i have like six or seven 9 volts just clumped together in a junk drawer im definitely gonna tape them up..thanks for heads up

[@dannymac6785]

Important message, and a great example of how good people can turn a tragic life experience into a possible life-saving lesson for others.

[@hohoribbit]

The supply of 'new' batteries in your drawer will also burn your house down, so take similar precautions there.

[@2smart2baliberal]

How is it possible that ANYBODY.....much less 262 people would find it necessary to "dislike" this video. I have ALMOST no faith in humanity. At least videos like this give me hope. Good video, thank you.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are welcome for the video. As we approach 1 million views, I'm sure there will be people who don't believe me or who don't like what I've said. I just hope they will take the time to do some research on batteries. As long as people are safer, I'm happy. As for your faith in humanity I guess we have to look at the positive. I'm so thankful for the hundreds of thousands who have taken the time to forward this. There are a lot of really kind people out there still! Thanks for the comment. - Dave

[@michaelschoellkopf2095]

This is why I replace the smoke alarm batteries when they begin to chirp, indicating that they need replacing. By that time there is not enough energy in the battery to start a fire.

[@huggs2]

It is extremely important to NOT replace the battery until it chirps. When the chirp starts every few seconds it means the battery is about to run out.Well done for letting every one know and glad you and your family are unhurt including your dog.

[@dencentco2]

Thank you for taking the time to share your awful experience. And to save someone else from a fire situation.

[@kpdvw]

Do NOT throw out good batteries! Dead ones do not short out or produce sufficient short circuit current/heat!

[@kinsjon]

Thank you Mr. Dave. I showed this to my parents and they were like "wow'. I have to write a school paper this month and I'm going to write about this topic. I'm glad you and your family and pets are safe too.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are quite an impressive young lady Miss Emily. Thanks for helping spread the word about fire safety. Good luck with the paper and let me know if you need any additional information. My daughter did a project at school on fire safety and she helped raise money to buy a thermal imager for our fire department. I'm excited that you are doing a project on this too! Take care - Dave

[@nathanaelkaur2820]

I can't believe the level of stupidity this is showing. Yes, there is a minor arguable design flaw with 9V batteries, but the life cycle was meant to be 1. New in packaging (safe) 2.In product (safe) 3. Used, empty battery, disposed of and safe. The house fire happened because you were replacing the batteries all the time when you change the clocks. That's not something I've ever heard of, maybe that's advice in America but it's BAD. Smoke detectors have a built in battery tester for a reason, to test the batteries are still good. If they fail, then throw them away, at which point it should be safe. You eneded up with effectively a bag full of new batteries laying together, that was pretty silly and not safe. The simple lesson is to test all your batteries before you throw them away, which is more cost efficient and better for the environment anyway.

[@janinehenschel4988]

THEY weren't NEW he just said that they were USED, but they probably just has some charge left in them, my batteries are DEAD or may have some juice still in them so not sure but its still goo info because I didn't know that at all and it could happen with a battery that still has some power still in it

[@ffjsb]

Nathanael isn't smart enough to know that the US has daylight savings time. Nor is he smart enough to know that you should replace your batteries BEFORE they get weak. And he was going to recycle them, not throw them away.

[@beckymartin5061]

Thank you, Dave. I'm 63 and I never knew this before. I'm going to my garage right now to get my recycled batteries and tape them!

[@55WomackDaddy]

This is great information to know and share. I have collected old batteries to recycle for years and never knew to tape the terminals on 9 volts. I am a teacher and encourage students to recycle old batteries all the time. This will now become something that I share with all of them. Thank you so much for caring and sharing!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I'm glad you like the information and thanks for all you do as a teacher. I'm really excited to hear that you will be teaching your kids about battery safety. Thanks for helping get our message out! - Dave

[@pauljordan9854]

I was getting ready for bed and checked my emails. My sister sent this video to me and it disturbed me so much I went and checked the extra battery we have stored in a plastic container. There was a 9 volt in there, however, it had a cap on it! There were other loose batteries in there touching each other. My heart raced! Ignore the bashers. Most of them wouldn't say anything to someone in person. I am so relieved to hear everyone, including the animals got out. Thank you posting this! I too am sharing the info. Sincerely Suzanne

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for the kind message Suzanne. It does get a little discouraging at times when I read the negative comments but people like you remind me why I started this project. I'm glad you took care of your batteries. I'd like to think that this message will help others avoid what we went though. Take care. - Dave

[@CreativEnvironments]

Thank you Dave for posting…. I have had my house burn down to the ground because of a fire….. I'm very happy you and your family and pets are safe, the rest can be replaced in one way or another….

[@ShannonFerguson]

Thank you for this warning. I was almost in tears watching. I will spread the word. Thank you, Dave!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are welcome Shannon and thanks for helping us get the word out. - Dave

[@Rajgada13]

Dave, you and your family are blessed and lucky to have survived and saved your pets. When I was in my early 20s, before I officially left the nest, there was a fire in my parents' house, which my mother and I were home when it started. We weren't able to save all of our pets. It was devastating, emotional, and difficult to recover from. It's been more than 15 years and I am neurotic about potential fire hazards in our home. I will do what I can to share your messages with my family and friends. God bless!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I'm sorry to hear you went through that Rajna and so sorry about your loss. I know I'm lucky and that's a big part of why I feel I need to share what I learned. Thanks for helping us get the word out and God bless you too. - Dave

[@BonnieOnt]

Thank you David for sharing after your great loss. So happy to know you and your family/pets are safe. I will now store mine properly... like you, mine are all clumped together in a bag headed for recycle and the new ones in a box together lose... will correct now.

[@skiroy56]

Watching this takes me back about 10 years. While I was traveling I had put some 9 volt batteries in my pocket (who knows why). While traveling down the road after a couple of hours I noticed that my leg was getting uncomfortably warm. reaching down and touching my pocket, where the batteries were, I noticed that my jeans were very warm, close to hot. I pulled over and removed the batteries to find that they were hot. Obviously this was caused from the terminals contacting each other. This video brought that back home to me and I thank you for your continued efforts to educate us on the potential hazards of what we think of as common everyday safe practices.

[@tinsakamp]

Just shared this on Facebook. I also keep all my batteries loosely in a "junk" drawer. I am getting the tape now! I went thru 2 house fires as a child. One was electrical and the other just 4 years later was base board heating related! I remember how hard it was for my parents, with 4 children by the 2nd fire, to get things back to normal. Please take the time to do what Dave is suggesting. Would you rather take some time to tape batteries or take years getting your life back together, if life is what you are left with! Thank you so much Dave. I'm so sorry you went through that with your family, but GOD takes the bad and uses it for good. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Tinsa, thanks for the comment. I'm so sorry you had to go through two fires. I can't even imagine going through this again. I'm sure glad you were safe though. We are doing fine and life is great today. We are back on our feet and enjoying life. Thanks for the comment and the blessing. God bless you too. - Dave

[@bonniestamps]

Thank you for the great tip on using the tape on the 9 volt battery before disposing of them. I had heard they could cause a fire, but had no idea what to do with a dead battery. I am so sorry to hear about your house fire. Thank you once again for helping others not have to have a horrible experience such as this.

[@jayclosner3901]

I've flown jet fighters for many hours and know how devastating a small event can mushroom into a very interesting day. Knowledge is power.. the right kind! Well done.

[@the-goat]

Very helpful video. I'm an electronics designer and hearing about this sort of thing reinforces the need to move away from the 9V battery as much as possible if we can do so in our designs. More recent smoke alarms use AA batteries. It's often a bit more expensive for the manufacturer to implement a step-up voltage solution but cheaper and safer for the consumer.

[@assemblyguy]

I never once thought of the dangers involved with disposal of batteries beyond the leakage into the water table. I was never taught that batteries can cause fires in the manner which was shown here. A lesson well learned and now it is time to change and pass this message along. Thank you for that.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are very welcome and thanks for helping pass the message along. - Dave

[@ranchgolfgirl]

OMG!! I have two FULL bags of batteries to recycle in our garage. I found six 9 volt batteries! I'm so thankful for your video. I will do my part and spread it to my circle of family and friends. Way to go!!

[@drgroovyster]

Oh man. What an amazing example of humble humanity and resilience!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are too kind Katrina. I'm just doing what anyone else who learned this would. Thanks for watching. - Dave

[@ociwc]

You deserve the huge thanks. Your positive actions after the fire will save lives and help people eliminate a potential threat in their home. So thank you.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are very welcome Ian and thanks for the kind words. - Dave

[@bonniemarg1]

A friend just shared your video with us. I checked our little bag of used batteries that we keep in the garage ready to take to the recycle depot. We had two 9 volt batteries in the mix. I could see your heart in your video; thanks for sharing with us. I have fixed the problem and we are a safer now thanks to your efforts.

[@ErinFranklyn]

Wow! Thank you Dave, for making this video and sharing it with us. Yes, you definitely turned your experience into something positive. My family and I have learned from your experience and from this point on we will be more mindful of the safety, not just of batteries but of other products as well. Sorry for the loss of your house but, soo glad your family is ok! Peace and Blessings, Erin.

[@spleenlessleenie7294]

Hi Dave! I have to tell you...as soon as I finished this video, I went to my recycle container for batteries and light bulbs, and taped the end of the batteries right up. I'm so sorry that your tragedy happened but because of it you have educated me, and for that...I am grateful. God bless you, your family, and KidsAndCharacter

[@GRobLewis]

+Eileen Cordle It's only necessary to tape one of the terminals to protect the battery. This is easier and uses less tape for cylindrical batteries.

[@spleenlessleenie7294]

+Rob Lewis thank you for the heads up!

[@Lifelover1957]

Dave, I am so sorry this happened to you. I am glad you came to terms with the fact you are not responsible and especially that your family and pets survived this tragedy! I am now going to do exactly what you said! Thank you for saving lives--maybe one of my Family members or Friends!

[@lmcsteffi44]

Dave, I am so very sorry for what your family went through, but you are so generous in sharing your story in order to "get the word out." My best friend and her husband had a terrible fire a couple of years ago, also due to battery problems. They too were very lucky in that family was fine, as well as all their pets, but the house had to be completely redone. My heart goes out to you, as it is a most difficult thing to cope with. Know that the good you are doing now is probably saving a LOT of lives! Thank you so very much for the effort in putting this very well made video together, I am forwarding the link to everyone I know right away. I have two grown sons with families of their own, and both are teachers. I know that they both will make sure friends, colleagues, students and family will all have the link to watch the video, so I'm sure your message will reach many, many families by the time they forward it. Again, thank you so much for the video, rest assured you are saving a lot of lives with the work you have done here! I'm now off to the garage to tape a bunch of batteries that haven't been recycled yet, electrician's tape in hand, and will forward link to video the moment that is done! Sincerely, Laura

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for the kind words Laura. I'm glad to hear you are taping those batteries and thanks for helping forward our message. - Dave

[@kateboyd4033]

Directly after I watched this video, I went right to my battery stash. I had 9- 9V batteries improperly stored, with medal objects and some in a plastic bag like described in your video. Thank you. There is no other words to describe. I will always keep duct tape on hand and never again will I have an exposed battery. You made my house a little safer.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks Kate. It is something we all have done but I'm really glad to hear you will be taping those batteries now. Take care - Dave

[@randacruz6799]

What a great thing you're doing. The world needs more people like you who learn important lessons, then share that with others. As the saying goes, Knowledge is power! You are now an educator and on a mission to save lives. How awesome is that, turning tragedy into triumph !!!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks Randa. I owe the inspiration to a very wise fire Captain who encouraged us to share this message. The Poudre FIre Authority are amazing and we ow them so much. Thanks for the kind comment. - Dave

[@firefytr2000]

Dave (KIDSANDCHARACTER), Im a 27-year fireman for Los Angeles Fire Department. Although I have not seen many fires started by loose batteries of any kind, either in drawers or saved for recycle, the fact is these fires do occur. Your story is living proof! Thank you for taking the time to educate us, using your incident of loss and potential tragedy for good. Well done! I would like to add that one of the most common fires we respond to are overheated foods/oils in pots on the kitchen stove. The best method of extinguishment in this case is to turn off the source, cover with a lid or damp towel, let cool. A dry chemical extinguisher works well also. Here is a link to 'get the point across'. Copy and paste the link below: Death in the Kitchen (Warning)

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for sharing this great tip! We all need to take fire safety more seriously by cleaning out dryer lint, being careful in the kitchen, watching BBQ grills and much more. As time permits I'll get some more videos created to illustrate these points. Your video is great and really provides some great information. Thanks again - Dave

[@kimberlythorne]

Sincere condolences for the personal loss that resulted from your fire. God Bless you for sharing this valuable information with everyone!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Hi Kimberly and thanks. No worries though, our loss was only in material possessions. My family and my animals all were safe and that's all that matters. God bless you too and thanks! - Dave

[@DannyTough]

WOW ! ! ! Thank you so much and God Bless you all. This is shocking what a small battery can do. Take care and may the rest of your life be again in God's hands. Tell your family I said hi, Danny T. Ricchio

[@fenderstratguy]

It's so Elvis of you to share this and save somebody else.

[@satman302]

Just wanted to say thank you, for posting this. most of us would have never thought about this. I have a small electronics business, selling satellites and antennas. I keep spare batteries in my truck, and never thought about them being hazardous. I will post this link to my Facebook page, and happily share it with friends.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are very welcome and thanks for helping spread the word about fire safety! - Dave

[@mb1554]

Thank you for sharing! I never knew this. For as long as I can remember, we have recycled old batteries in a coffee container kept in a kitchen cabinet. This could have been disastrous! I am so sorry for your loss, but grateful that you, your family and pets are safe. I will also share this with everyone I know. Take heart that not a lot of people know this information. You are providing a great service!

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are very welcome and thanks for the comment. That coffee container is probably OK as long as the terminals of your batteries are taped. That's the part I didn't think about either. Take care - Dave

[@papdnj]

Thank you very much Dave for posting this video. Very sorry for what you and your family has gone through. Learned a very valuable lesson by watching this video.

[@bburnsga]

I'm very much a do-it-yourselfer, & I've never heard this before...so glad to know it now. As one commented said, I actually buy these batters & throw them in a Ziploc freezer bag in my batter drawer. Won't do this again. Thanks to Dave for making this video!!

[@mistresssoulsistah]

Thank you very much, Dave!! This is an incredible eye-opener! So grateful no one was hurt.

[@johannasloan1789]

I just stumbled across this video. Thank you for spreading awareness! In may 2013 our apartment building was caught on fire by an arsonist. We're all ok but it was certainly scary. Thank you for spreading knowledge and awareness

[@cindygoodgion7327]

I just went to my battery drawer and took the two 9volt batteries out and put tape across them. I also made sure all the other batteries were stored properly instead of thrown loose in the drawer. Thank you SO much for this video. This could so easily have been me.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for taking care of your batteries Cindy. I tape all of them now, including the AA, AAA, C and D. I just figure it isn't worth the chance. Take care. - Dave

[@bbeall4002]

Thank you, for all we know you just helped me save my life, my daughters life, and our house!

[@kathyhoglund2115]

I just went through my battery recycle box and there were three 9-volt batteries in there! I didn't know that the terminals needed to be covered. Thank you. Your video may have saved my home and family from tragedy.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are welcome Kathy. I tape all of our batteries now just to be safe. I'm glad this information is useful for you. - Dave

[@1934Margaret]

Very well done. Thanks Dave for doing this to make people aware of the danger of incorrectly storing a 9 volt battery. Looking forward to more tips

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks Margaret - I posted more videos tonight. I hope you find them useful. - Dave

[@SpecificLove7]

I am sorry for the fire, but thank you so much for reaching out and teaching others the lesson that can hopefully save them.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are welcome. Thanks for the comment! - Dave

[@t.jonnson7306]

Wow, this guy lost his home and still has the strength to put this out.. Good for him ! If I was close I would certainly help out if needed.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

That's really kind of you T Jay. We are doing fine now and life is back to normal. It's really kind of you to offer to help. You can help by spreading the word so others learn this lesson. Thanks for the comment! - Dave

[@t.jonnson7306]

KidsAndCharacter Will try my best....cope as best as possible then my friend. : )

[@darlenenielsen5736]

Dave, Thank you so much for sharing and sooo sorry for the loss.God Bless you.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks Darlene. You are very welcome for the video. It's a small way for us to give back after we received help from so many wonderful people. God bless you and your family too! - Dave

[@inspiredpossibilities]

I lost two children in a fire on Sept 13, 1991 and I started a Facbook page to help spread the fire safety awareness. I will be sharing this on my page for sure and I will be checking out your other ones too.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Annette, thanks for all you are doing to help spread the word about fire safety. That is an incredibly brave thing you are doing. I can't imagine what you have gone through but know that my family and I will keep you in our prayers. - Dave

[@jimmyraytodd387]

ty so much for reminding me of something i already knew but have become lax in taking precautions against.Our prayers for you and you family and a huge thank you for caring enough for others to help us remember how dangerous seemingly safe items can be when we do not think about them in a proper manner

[@cfitzsimthealbertan]

Thanks so much for sharing this important safety tip. I found carelessly handled 9-volts in my home, and taped them immediately. I'm sorry you had to come by this knowledge through such an ordeal, but it is great of you to share it to help keep others safe.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

I'm glad you got them secured Charles. Thanks for the kudos. Much appreciated. - Dave

[@davidwoodruff4415]

I continue to be amazed how people live as long as they do and still acquire so little knowledge.......

[@lynnprice4516]

I would have never known this. Thanks for this valuable information. I am sad you lost you home, but glad your family is safe.

[@stevesam789]

I also think you are a hero for taking the time to share these things. I'm a master tech, aware of this possibility but, would not have thought! Horrible! Thank you and I will share!!! So glad all and your pets are well, At times like these we realize how material things are not as valuable as we thought!!!

[@Pumpkin061]

Thank you for making this video and for sharing it with all of us. Please use this page for positive comments and not negative ones. This video and all the ones like this, will help save lives.

[@georgebargis9797]

Thank you for sharing and we are very happy that your family and animals did not get hurt.

[@tchesterwang8177]

Wow!. Thank you, David. We put all our old batteries in a jar for future recycling, of course in "garage" as well. Now I need to check it and make sure it is safe.

[@ayyasudhamma3903]

Thank you, I'd never heard this warning before. Strangely, the moment the video began to play, my smoke detector began to chirp (indicating that the battery needs changing). And yes, I'll certainly tape up that battery. Timely message!

[@oldgypsytap]

This may be the most valuable video ever to appear on KZbin! I've discussed with friends the inherent dangers of all batteries and how our world is being impacted by their proliferation. This example is as clear as it gets. Heeding the simple means of protection (i.e. tape) is a must. for those which are the smaller (9V) batteries. Be on the lookout for info regarding the dangers of the likes of car fires and other larger batteries. THANK YOU for posting this valuable info.

[@volunteercoordinator1301]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I am so sorry for all you lost but glad your family and pets are all right.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks Rebecca, that's very kind of you. It's funny, but we all found that the material things we lost just didn't matter much. We spent the first couple weeks crammed in a small hotel room with kids, dogs, cats and all and it was some of the best time we have ever spent together as a family. This fire really helped remind us what is important. Take care and stay safe! - Dave

[@MsKraftee]

Thank you for making this video to alert people to the danger of improperly stored 9 volt batteries. I learned about the dangers 9 volt batteries many years ago when I almost burned my house down. I had taken one out of something but the battery was still good so I threw in a junk drawer not realizing there was also a piece of steel wool in the drawer. I happened to open that same drawer a little while later and the steel wool was acting like tinder and probably would have ignited if I had not found it. Very scary but a lesson learned.

[@TheMarvelene]

Thank -you so much ! I'm sorry for the loss of your home . I'm posting this on my page as to help spread your message . It is of great importance to pass it on and I'm grateful to help . My prayers are with you & your family , I thank God no one was hurt or killed ~

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks for spreading the word! - Dave

[@elc80]

Thank you for the video. My son watched it with me and we both learned the proper way of storing the batteries. We will be more vigilant.

[@lydmik]

many thanks for sharing your story & for the valuable life saving information you've shared, Dave...I am so glad that you, your family & your pets are all ok...

[@nicukaren]

After watching this video, my husband commented that he'd put a AA battery he'd changed out of a camera into his jeans pocket. Not thinking that his change was also in that pocket, he didn't realize what he'd done until he felt his jeans getting very hot in the area of that pocket. He reached into it to find the source of the heat, and could barely touch the coins in there. He managed to get the coins out and that's when he saw the battery and realized what he'd done. A minute or even just seconds longer, his jeans might have burst into flames. Such simple things can cause devastating consequences. Your videos are very informative. Thank you!

[@vidagaines968]

Karen you are also a beautiful person.I am glad your dad is doing well. Give him a big hug for me. I've got a lot of anxiety going on these days, but I really want to get together soon. Love ya lots. Luanne

[@earthdolphin1]

Thanks you so much. We store them in the exact same way. In plastic bag, in the laundry room, on shelf where they could easily get bumped. We're going to keep electrical tape next to where we keep them. You may have saved our house!

[@EvansGarden]

Thank you so much for sharing this vitally important information! I am so thankful, too, that your family and pets survived! I'll spread the word.

[@danniebloss663]

I had never thought about this and want to thank you so very much. I will pass it along to my own family. You're my hero.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Wow, Dannie, I'm humbled. You are very welcome and thanks for sharing the videos. I'm just doing what anyone would do after learning this. It's the same thing you are doing by sharing the information with your family. Take care - Dave

[@LauraLittlePony]

Thank you so much for telling us your pets were ok; animals are important to me, and it means a lot. I'm not sure if it's weird to tell you this, but you seem like one of the kindest, sincerest people I have ever seen online--or anywhere, really. It was mostly because I was touched by what I saw in you as a person that I just taped my batteries.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Thanks so much for the kind comment. It has been an interesting journey making these videos. There are so many kind and wonderful people out there helping spread our fire safety message and wishing us well. Of course, there are a few who have had some less than kind things to say. I can tell you getting such a nice comment from you really made my day and I appreciate it a ton! I'm even happier that you have taken the time to make your batteries safe. Thanks again and stay safe! - Dave

[@MeteorMega]

Thanks for sharing. I'm an adult and I needed this lesson. I usually recycle them, but do the same thing.

[@kenzpenz]

Just to repeat what Def Con said. Placing a piece of steel wool across the terminals will result in a fire. I was taught this in survival training many years ago. Most survival kits contain a 9 volt battery and steel wool for fire starting. Now having said that, I am really shocked and surprised to learn of your disaster. My son just forwarded your youtube to me. Wow, call me enlightened. I will take your suggestion to prevent that from happening to me or at the recycling center when my batteries arrive.Sorry for your loss and thanks for taking the time to share.

[@Parivattita]

Thank you David. I am so sorry for your loss but you are doing the right thing. I have shared your video on my facebook page.

[@Camperhollow]

WoW, something like that did all that damage. I wonder how many people even realize. Thank you for putting up this video.

[@FriendoftheSubReddit]

Thank you SO MUCH for sharing this information. I recycle my batteries and do EXACTLY what you did, when storing them for recycling. I'm so glad you made this video.

[@MrFedup2222]

Thank you for the positive reaction; although I knew the dangers of disposing batteries without taking the safe steps required, I am guilty of disposing batteries inappropriately, no more, thanks to your shared experience.

[@levioniszko7200]

Wow...I totally had NO idea that could even happen. Thank you and bless you for taking this road to try to help others.

[@JRZGRL55]

So glad you were able to get all of your family, including your pets, out! Thanks for sharing this information.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are welcome. Thanks for the comment. - Dave

[@AngeofMK]

Thank you for this valuable in formation. I had no idea, now I will make sure my new unused 9 volt batteries are stored properly and my used ones are disposed of properly. Thank you for wanting to spread this information around.

[@wallbounce]

My office building provided plastic bags and buckets for battery recycling and collection but no accompanying instructions on taping the terminals. Thanks for posting this video and teaching me about battery and fire safety.

[@pattilee5695]

Thank you for taking the time to inform us of the danger of 9v batteries.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

You are very welcome Patti. Thanks for watching. - Dave

[@getplaning]

I never thought of this. I have a bag of batteries in my garage waiting to be recycled at this very moment. Or at least, I did up until I watched this video. I know the panic of having your house catch fire. My house had an electrical short inside a wall that started a fire. Lucky for me, we figured out where the fire was and opened the wall with an axe and put it out. But I never want to live through that again. Glad you are all OK.

[@KidsAndCharacter]

Wow, what a scary story. I'm so glad you were able to stop your fire before it got worse. Thanks for taking care of those batteries! - Dave