Wheat bags safety message

The CFA has put out a reminder to keep an eye on a potential fire hazard you might not have expected – therapeutic wheat bags.

Used similarly to hot water bottles, wheat bags are usually made of fabric and filled with wheat or other grains, and heated in the microwave for use to relieve muscular, back, and arthritic pains.

But over time, the wheat in the bags can become more likely to cause burns or even light on fire.

“Investigations into therapeutic wheat bags have revealed that the wheat can ignite during heating and when used as a warmer in bed. Constant use can result in the reduction of the moisture content of the wheat, causing it to overheat,” CFA wrote on social media.

The two big tips are of course to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and check the life of the wheat bag.

Perhaps surprisingly, it’s also recommended not to use wheat bags in bed in case you fall asleep while using them, as well as watch for signs of overuse such as burning odours, and make sure the wheat bag is cold before storing it away.

Seventy-two per cent of fatal fires start in bedrooms and living areas when people are sleeping, so it pays to be careful.