Topical Emollients and Fire Hazard Risk
Patients who are prescribed paraffin containing emollients should be advised by clinicians of fire hazard and how to minimise risk.
Key messages
Healthcare professionals should advise patients:
- of fire risk when using large quantities of any paraffin containing emollients.
- to keep away from open or gas fires or hobs and naked flames, including candles and avoid smoking when using paraffin containing preparations.
- to wash bedding/clothing regularly at 600C, to minimise the build-up of impregnated paraffin which can be a fire hazard. However, remember that whilst washing your clothing and bedding even at high temperatures might reduce the build-up, it does not remove it completely and the danger may remain.
- that the risk of fire cannot be excluded with paraffin-free emollients. A similar risk may apply for other products which are applied to the skin over large body areas or in large volumes for repeated use more than a few days. Click here for MHRA alert.
- that although medical oxygen is non-flammable, it strongly supports combustion and therefore oils and greases should be avoided. Only water-based products should be used on the hands and face or inside the nose while using oxygen.
Refer to MHRA alert for the safe use of emollient skin creams to treat dry skin conditions.
Published 26/03/21. Medicines Update blogs are correct at the time of publication.