Urgent Warning Issued as Hot Water Bottle Injuries Surge

A significant warning has been issued regarding the safety of hot water bottles following a troubling increase in related injuries. New data from the Children’s Burns Trust and the International Burn Injury Database indicates a staggering 100% increase in hot water bottle injuries over the past five years. In 2024, approximately 1,000 cases were recorded, marking the highest number of burns linked to these products in over two decades.

Understanding how to safely use and maintain hot water bottles is essential. One of the key factors to ensure safety is checking the product’s age. Many users are unaware of how to determine the manufacturing date of their hot water bottles. A helpful symbol shaped like a flower can be found on the bottle, typically located around the top near the stopper. This symbol contains a number in the center, indicating the year of manufacture. For instance, a number such as 19 signifies the bottle was made in 2019.

To ascertain the manufacturing month, users should count the dots on the petals of the flower symbol. Each dotted petal corresponds to a month. For example, if six petals are dotted, this indicates a manufacturing date in June. Experts recommend replacing hot water bottles every two years, as the rubber material can deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of accidents.

Changes in safety standards may also occur during this period. Proper storage of hot water bottles is critical for safety. When not in use, bottles should be completely drained and stored with the stopper removed. It is crucial to keep them away from sunlight and direct heat sources. Ideal storage locations include drawers, cupboards, or wardrobes. Areas like hot presses, airing cupboards, or near radiators are not suitable due to fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels.

Additionally, storing hot water bottles near chemicals, such as cleaning supplies, poses another safety risk. Ensuring proper maintenance and storage can significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries associated with hot water bottles.

In light of this alarming increase in injuries, it is vital for consumers to remain vigilant about the age and condition of their hot water bottles. Being proactive can help avoid potentially dangerous situations and ensure safe use during colder months.