The Victorian Government is today reminding Victorians to keep safety at the forefront of their minds when using heating products such as hot water bottles, fireplaces and wheat bags this winter.
The warning followed a recent incident that saw a Victorian couple badly burned after their water bottle exploded during the night.
Greg Parsons and his wife were taken to the Alfred Hospital for treatment after the recent accidental explosion.
Mr Parsons told authorities he had been using hot water bottles since he was a child but did not realise how dangerous they could be when used past their expiry date.
He’s urged Victorians to consider how long they’ve owned their hot water bottle and says if in doubt – throw it out.
It’s a message backed by Minister for Consumer Affairs, Melissa Horne.
“Taking a few moments to read warning labels properly could be the difference between a warm night at home or a trip to the emergency room,” said Ms Horne.
“Cheap winter warmers like hot water bottles can be a great cost-effective way to stay warm during winter, but it’s important to ensure you’re using them safely.
“A few safety precautions such as never filling your hot water bottle with boiling water, hanging it up to dry before reusing it and replacing it every 12 months will go a long way to avoiding putting yourself in danger.”
The Minister said that with energy prices rising, it was understandable some Victorians were using cheaper alternatives to stay warm.
“Which is why it’s critical to always read safety labels and only use products as directed to prevent serious injury,” she said.
To help avoid hot water bottle injuries, Victorians are urged not to use boiling water when filling up, replace the bottle as soon as it starts to look cracked or worn and never leave it on one body part for more than 20 minutes.
In addition to hot water bottle safety, it’s important to be diligent around all heating products to ensure your safety this winter. This includes cleaning chimneys, checking electric blankets and using wheat bags as directed.
These measures aren’t difficult or time-consuming and can mean the difference between a staying warm safely or serious injury, said Minister Horne.
