Warning about heating wheat bags

Firefighters issued a warning this week after crews from Hamlyn Terrace Fire Station responded to a kitchen fire last week caused by an overheated wheat bag that was left in the microwave.

The fire was quickly contained and damage was limited.

Wheat bags can spontaneously ignite if heated for too long, especially in older or faulty microwaves.

Always follow the heating instructions and never leave them unattended.

With Winter here, it’s a good time to remember a few key fire safety tips:

Never overheat wheat bags – they are not designed to be hot water bottle replacements;

Keep an eye on anything cooking or heating in the kitchen;

Have working smoke alarms in key areas of your home;

Keep microwaves clean and free of food build-up

Working smoke alarms save lives – if you’d like a free smoke alarm check, contact your local Fire and Rescue NSW station.