As a severe cold snap grips the nation, fire safety professionals are issuing an urgent warning about a common household item used for warmth: the microwaveable heat pack.
The Hidden Danger in Your Microwave
These convenient pouches, often filled with grains like wheat, rice, or flax, are a go-to for millions seeking relief from the chill, period pains, or aching muscles. However, specialists caution that their misuse can swiftly lead to a serious fire hazard.
Jonny Smith, a fire risk assessment specialist at Crusader Fire, has highlighted the significant risk these items can pose. The core of the danger lies in the variability of microwave ovens. A heating time that is safe in one kitchen can be dangerously excessive in another, potentially causing the contents to overheat and ignite.
How a Cosy Item Can Turn Hazardous
"A few seconds too long, or a bag that has dried out, can lead to a smouldering fire inside a microwave," Jonny Smith explained. He further warned that people often compound the risk by assuming the bags are safe to place on or near other heat sources or fabrics.
"People also sometimes leave wheat bags on radiators or near curtains, assuming they are safe, and that is when serious accidents can happen," he added.
The peril doesn't end when the bag is removed from the microwave. Smith emphasised that placing a warm heat pack on bedding, sofas, or chairs can trap heat against flammable material, dramatically increasing the chance of a fire starting, even once the user is asleep.
Essential Safety Checks and Advice
For those who rely on these packs, experts insist on rigorous safety checks before each use. Always inspect the seams, lining, and filling for any signs of damage. A split bag or exposed filling significantly raises the risk of ignition.
Critical safety rules include:
- Never refreeze or reuse a bag that shows wear and tear.
- Always follow the manufacturer's heating instructions meticulously.
- Never leave a heating pack unattended while it is warm.
- Avoid placing it on or near flammable surfaces like curtains, bedding, or upholstery.
"Winter encourages people to reach for anything that promises instant heat," Smith stated. "While these products are generally safe when used properly, there's a real risk when they're overheated, left unattended, or placed on flammable surfaces."
With freezing conditions set to continue, this warning serves as a crucial reminder to prioritise safety while staying warm.
