A senior Shropshire fire officer has called for people to be aware of the fire danger from skin creams containing paraffin.
Care homes in the county must also take steps to reduce the risk to people in residential care, says Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Guy Williams, in charge of fire prevention and protection in the county, said there had been no incidents in Shropshire despite 37 reported deaths in England since 2010.
He said he wanted to reassure elderly people, carers and people with skin conditions who use the creams which have been linked to fire deaths.
“Smoking in bed and leaving electric blankets on all night should definitely be avoided to reduce fire hazards,” said Guy, who also recommended regular high temperature washing of bedding.
The cream’s paraffin residue soaks into clothes and bed sheets, making them flammable.
People with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis use the creams to relieve the conditions.
Creams were not dangerous but people must be aware of the potential danger of paraffin residue being absorbed into clothes and bedding even after washing, he warned.
Anyone with concerns should contact Shrewsbury fire HQ on 01743 260200 when home fire safety visits can be arranged.
More information on the fire risk of paraffin based creams is on the fire safety business section of the brigade’s website www.shropshirefire.gov.uk
