The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning over a common skin product.

The Service has issued the notice over emollient creams which are used by those who suffer from skin conditions.

The public are advised that although these creams "are not flammable in isolation", there is 'a serious fire risk'.

A statement said: "Emollient creams are vitally important to people who suffer from chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. They are moisturisers that may contain paraffin or other products like shea or cocoa butter, nut oil, or mineral oils and they work by covering the skin with a protective film or barrier which keeps the moisture in. We encourage their use as recommended by medical professionals and the manufacturer’s instructions.

"Emollient creams are not flammable in isolation but regular use of these products, which may or may not contain paraffin, over a number of days, can lead to them soaking into your clothing, bedding and bandages/dressings. This residue then dries within the fabric and can cause a fire to develop, burn intensely and spread rapidly if an ignition or heat source is introduced.

"Emollients creams can transfer from the skin onto clothing, bedding, dressings, and other fabric. Once there, they can dry onto the fabric and build up over time. In the presence of a naked flame, fabric with emollient dried on is easily ignited; this can cause severe burns and even death."

The NIFRS added that if you use or you care for someone who needs emollient creams, lotions or gels, you can help keep them safe by understanding and reducing the related fire risks:

  • Never smoke in bed
  • Do not smoke if there is any chance your clothing or dressings could be contaminated with these products
  • Do not cook with gas or electric hobs, if there is any chance your clothing or dressings could be contaminated
  • Do not sit too close to any open fires, gas fires or halogen heaters
  • Wash your clothing and bedding frequently at the highest temperature recommended by the fabric care instructions. This should reduce some of the contamination but will not remove it.

A statement continued: "If you are near someone whose clothing catches fire, you can also use a blanket or a rug to smother the flames. Cool any burns with running water and seek medical attention immediately."

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