Woman Rescued In St Leonards Microwave Blaze

Tuesday, 8 September 2020 11:12

By John Warburton @Warblefly

Microwave Fire (Stock image from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service)

A woman was receiving care from paramedics last night (September 7) after firefighters tackled a blaze that started in a microwave oven in St. Leonards.

Four crews attended soon after 8.30pm to put out the flames that had burst out in a kitchen in Marina Street.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reported it was the second fire, involving a microwave oven, in the space of a few days.

Firefighters this morning issued information about preventing blazes in these common, but powerful, kitchen appliances.

Can I put metal objects in the microwave?: Unlike plastics and ceramics, metals reflect microwaves (which means they can’t pass through).
So if you put your microwave meal in a metal dish, it won’t allow it to heat up correctly.
Thinner pieces of metals, for example foils, can act as an antenna, which can create sparks.
This is extremely dangerous and could cause your microwave to set on fire.
Can I put a plastic object in the microwave?: You should only ever microwave things which clearly state that they are microwave safe.
Do not use any containers, foam trays or any plastic storage bags that are not specifically designed for microwave use.
This is because they could melt and cause damage to you and your appliance.
It’s also important to be aware that some microwaveable plastic containers specify a maximum continuous exposure time, so always check the label, or contact the manufacturer for clarification.
If in doubt, you could always use a suitable ceramic container instead.
Can you boil a cup of water in a microwave?: Boiling a cup of water in a microwave could cause it to explode.
What causes a microwave to spark?: Any food that has splattered, or dripped, in the microwave can continue to cook, causing sparks inside your microwave.

Regular cleaning and maintenance is essential.
Microwave fires can also be caused by overheating wheat bags in the microwave – read our Black Museum case study to find out how.
If an electrical appliance catches fire, don't throw water on it.
A working, well maintained smoke alarm will give you valuable minutes in the event of a fire and allow you time to escape.
In case of fire, pull the appliance's plug out if it's safe to do so, or switch off the power at the fuse box.
If the fire doesn't go out, get out of the house, stay out and call 999.