Firefighters are reminding residents to take extra care with microwavable wheat bags after an elderly resident suffered a fire in her kitchen over the weekend.
Wheat bags are microwavable bags of buckwheat, used to relieve pain and muscular discomforts. But as with any item involving heat, there is a fire risk if they are overheated or if the manufacturer’s instructions aren’t followed correctly.
Late on Saturday evening, firefighters from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service were mobilised to reports of a fire in a kitchen in Denman’s Lane, Lindfield. Upon arrival at the scene, the crew from Haywards Heath Fire Station found the fire-damaged wheat bag inside the resident’s microwave.
The lady had tried to remove it from the property, after seeing it had caught fire, but the smoke generated by the burning wheat bag had almost overcome her. Firefighters moved the wheat bag outside and then ventilated the property.
Damage to the kitchen was minimal, and fortunately the lady was not injured as a result of the fire, although she was suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation. The firefighters, who were trained Immediate Emergency Care Responders, administered first aid to relieve her symptoms.
Retained Watch Commander, Phil Pierpoint, said: “Fortunately this resident had spotted when the wheat bag had caught fire. But rather than dial 999 immediately she had tried to tackle the fire herself, as she said she did not wish to be a burden.
"If there is an emergency and we are needed, it is never a burden.
“When the smoke became too much, she did call for the fire and rescue service. In the event of a fire in the home, our advice is always to get out, stay out and 999 for the fire and rescue service.
“We know wheat bags can bring relief to those suffering from pain, and when used correctly they can be effective. But it is so important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when heating the bags to ensure they do not overheat and catch fire.”
South Downs Design Awards Back
Portsmouth's EV Charge Boost
AI Powered Speed Cameras Launched
Skate Park Attack Appeal in Crawley
Two Men Jailed for Running Drug Farm in Littlehampton
South Coast Sea Warning
Police Continue to Tackle Anti-Social Behaviour Across West Sussex
School Children Across South Coast Get Education Placements
Boost in Medics in Portsmouth
Two Arrested Following Drugs Warrant in Littlehampton
On Air