Take Care with Microwaveable Wheatbags

Following a recent incident at a retirement property in Tonbridge which was attended by Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Kent Trading Standards would like to alert all consumers to the dangers of microwaveable wheat bags if they are not used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Fortunately, on this occasion, the overheated wheat bag only resulted in the property filling with acrid smoke, but there have been instances when the misuse of wheat bags have caused property fires.

DO

• Buy wheat bags with clear heating instructions from the manufacturer, and follow them.
• Buy bags which include manufacturers' contact details if you have a problem.
• Only use as a heat pack for direct application to the body.
• Ensure your microwave turntable is working properly.
• Watch for signs of overuse, such as a smell of burning or charring.
• Leave bags to cool in a safe area and on a noncombustible surface like a kitchen sink.

DON'T

• Use a wheat bag as a bed-warmer.
• Overheat the bag.
• Reheat the bag until is has completely cooled - which may take up to two hours.
• Leave the microwave unattended when heating.
• Store the bag until it has completely cooled.
• Use the bag if you see evidence of problems.