Midair Scare: Electronic Device Ignites on Southwest Flight

Passengers aboard a Southwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Albany on June 17, 2015, witnessed a frightening event when a passenger’s e-cigarette battery malfunctioned mid-flight. The incident occurred when one of the travelers felt a sudden pop from his pocket, followed by an alarming sensation of heat on his leg. In a state of urgency, the passenger extracted the e-cigarette, only to watch the battery eject and smoke began to billow from the device.

Quick to respond, the flight crew immediately submerged the rogue battery and cracked device in water, a move that prevented a possible fire from engulfing the cabin. Although the incident was contained, the passenger sustained minor burns. Thankfully, he required no medical attention upon the flight’s arrival in Albany. The event punctuated the skies with a stark reminder of the potential dangers of electronic devices on planes.

Such occurrences highlight the importance of being prepared for unexpected emergencies during flights. Travelers and airlines alike are urged to learn from this experience and adopt more efficient measures to address similar threats swiftly and safely.

Enter the FireTowel, a revolutionary device designed to combat precisely these types of dangers. Crafted with a high-grade, flame-retardant material, it is considerably thicker than a standard fire blanket. Ingeniously engineered with weights along the perimeter, the FireTowel provides a tight seal that contains both flames and smoke. Equipped with handles, it allows for easy maneuvering, secure wrapping of the hazardous object, and ensures a safe way to handle overheated devices. Passengers and crew could benefit from having these accessible during flights, offering a heightened level of protection and peace of mind. The FireTowel is not just a tool; it's a guardian ready to defend against the unforeseen dangers our technology may pose, transforming potential catastrophes into manageable incidents.