The increasing use of lithium-ion batteries in household devices has contributed to an increase in fires.
This year, 35 fires in New Zealand have been caused by battery malfunctions. And one homeowner's story is a strong warning.
What once was a loved first home, is now empty with reminders of what once was.
Morgan Cramp returned home one day in July, to see smoke coming from the back of the house.
She went to investigate and by the time she managed to get herself and the dog Darcy to safety the house was in flames. Thankfully both her children were at daycare.
"It doesn't even bear thinking about what would have happened if it was the middle of the night," she said.
"I don't think, based on how fast I saw the house go up, I don't think we would have got out."
The fire came from a power drill that was kept in storage under the house. It wasn't on or plugged in but still burst into flames.
Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly popular, they're small, lightweight and long-lasting.
"These do create a hazard as if they do fail and catch fire they ignite and let off a highly flammable flash which can catch fire to things around them," FENZ spokesperson Todd O'Donoghue said.
In the US, fires caused by these batteries have increased five times over since 2016. They are used to power electric transport with an e-bike being the cause of one apartment fire in Australia. But they are in smaller items also.
Most mobile phones and laptops are fitted with these batteries but also things such as electric toothbrushes and children's toys - basically anything that is small and chargeable. But there are things we can do to minimise the risk of items like these going up in flames.
"Certainly don't charge items on bed and cushions and things like that that could easily catch fire if a battery does fail and I guess lastly I really urge everyone to have working smoke alarms in their home," O'Donoghue said.
The Cramp family is now left to pick up the pieces and rely on the support of their community who gave them a roof and supplies when they needed it most and have since started a Givealittle page.
"You think it won't happen to you - but apparently it can," Cramp said.
All family members now just want to rebuild and have a place to call home again.
