Safe use of emollient creams
Emollient creams are surprisingly flammable and must be used and stored safely.
By following these top tips for using emollient creams safely in your home, you can reduce the risk of fire incidents and ensure the well-being of your household. It is crucial to exercise caution around open flames, practice proper storage, and educate family members and visitors about fire safety. Prioritising these guidelines will help create a safe environment while benefitting from the necessary skincare provided by emollient creams.
- Be cautious around open flames.
- Avoid close proximity of emollient creams to open flames, including candles, gas stoves, and heaters.
- The creams can easily ignite and intensify fires due to their high oil content.
- Don’t smoke near emollient creams.
- Smoking while using emollient creams can be extremely dangerous.
- Emollient residue on smokers' clothing and bedding can act as a combustible and easily catch fire.
- Always keep emollient creams away from individuals who smoke or from areas where smoking occurs.
- Allow sufficient time for absorption.
- Ensure that the emollient cream is fully absorbed into the skin before coming into contact with any flammable materials.
- Waiting for complete absorption reduces the risk of transferring the cream onto bedding, clothing, or furniture, which could lead to ignition.
- Store emollient creams correctly.
- When not in use, store emollient creams in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or any sources of heat.
- Avoid storing them near radiators or in bathrooms where high humidity can impact their efficacy and potentially increase the risk of fire.
- Keep emollient cream containers clean.
- Regularly clean the containers of emollient creams to prevent a build-up of product residue.
- Cream build-up inside the containers can become flammable, increasing the risk of fire.
- Use a dry cloth or tissue to wipe the container's threads and ensure it is free from any leftover cream.
- Follow instructions for use.
- Carefully read and follow the instructions provided with the emollient cream.
- These instructions usually include specific safety warnings and storage guidelines.
- Adherence to the manufacturer's instructions is crucial for safe and effective use of the product.
- Be mindful of bedding and clothing.
- After applying emollient creams, be cautious when handling bedding, clothing, or fabrics.
- Emollients can transfer onto these materials and increase their flammability.
- Ensure that all emollient residue is absorbed or removed before coming into contact with fabrics, reducing the risk of ignition.
- Educate family members and visitors.
- Inform all household members and visitors about the potential fire risks associated with emollient creams.
- Emphasise the importance of following safety guidelines to prevent accidents.
- Consider placing visible reminders in areas where emollient creams are used frequently.
- Have fire safety equipment in place.
- Ensure your home is equipped with functional smoke alarms. Regularly test the alarms.