Emollients are moisturising treatments applied directly to the skin to soothe and hydrate it. They work by covering the skin with a protective film that helps to hold in moisture — but they also carry a fire risk that many people aren't aware of.
Emollients are found in many products, including over-the-counter lotions, sprays, creams, ointments, and soap substitutes such as shower gels. Common types include paraffin, shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, lanolin, nut oils and mineral oils.
Why is there a fire risk?
Emollients are not flammable in themselves. The risk exists because emollient gets absorbed into clothing, bedding and other materials. If that fabric is exposed to a naked flame or other heat source, the emollient can act as an accelerant — the resulting fire burns quickly and intensely, and can cause serious injury or death.
How serious is it?
Every year there are fire fatalities and serious incidents involving emollient products. Over the last decade, more than 50 people have died or been seriously injured after emollient cream dried onto bed sheets or clothing and set alight, often while smoking.
Flammability increases each time a fabric is exposed to emollient, and even repeated high-temperature washing may not fully remove the risk. The danger is greater when emollient is applied over large areas of the body. Those most at risk include people with reduced mobility and people who smoke.
How to reduce the risk
- Keep away from fire, flames and cigarettes
- Never smoke in bed
- Consider using a flameless lighter or an e-cigarette
- Don't sit too close to open fires, gas fires or halogen heaters if your clothes may have been in contact with emollients
- Wash clothing and bedding frequently at the highest temperature the fabric allows, to reduce build-up
- Contact your local fire service to ask for a free Safe and Well visit
Perhaps Gardiner's could help you or a loved one manage the risks associated with prolonged use of emollients? Get in touch to find out more.
