Dramatic vid reveals unexpected danger of power banks as iPhone & Android owners warned not to leave them around house

THIS is the terrifying moment a portable charger explodes, forcing officials to issue an urgent warning against leaving them with pets.

The hair-raising footage shows a dog in an Oklahoma living room gnawing on a lithium-ion, while another rests opposite.

The white dog feasts on what it thinks is a sweet treat while perched upon a mattress, in a clip released by the Tulsa Fire Department.

But sparks of fire suddenly fly upwards and billowing smoke encases the sofa and mattress as the charger exploded into flames.

This prompts the canines to dart across the room to find safety behind the grey sofa.

Rescuers then take the traumatised pups to safety while they inspect the damage to the home.

Two fire trucks appear to be deployed to tackle the blaze.

Tulsa Fire Department confirmed that the house suffered extensive damage but both pups came out injury-free and cited the battery as the culprit.

They said: "Be careful - you may have items in your home that can lead to a disaster if not properly handled!

"We responded to a house fire in May that was caused by a damaged lithium-ion battery.

"While the home was significantly damaged, their two dogs and cat escaped the home uninjured through a dog door.

"Fire departments all over the country are seeing fires related to these batteries and we want the public to learn about usage, safe storage and proper disposal of these potentially dangerous batteries."

Lithium-ion batteries are often used to power portable devices as they're lightweight yet store a lot of power but this can prove dangerous.

Tulsa Fire Department officer Andy Little explained: "When this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate heat, produce flammable and toxic gases, and even lead to explosions.

"These incidents can occur due to various reasons, such as exposure to extreme heat, physical damage, to the battery overcharging, or even using incompatible charging equipment."

He advised all members of the public to "adhere to manufacturer guidelines" when using these, "only using approved chargers" and "storing them out of reach of children and pets".

Little added: "It is imperative to dispose of lithium-ion batteries properly.

"They should never be tossed in household garbage or recycling bins as they can cause fires during transportation or at disposal facilities.

“Instead, take these batteries to designated recycling centres or household hazardous waste collection points."