As parts of the UK prepare for temperatures exceeding 30°C this week, Chorlton Fireworks has issued a fire safety warning about the increased risk posed by everyday household items during periods of extreme heat.
The reminder comes as insurers and fire services continue to monitor seasonal fire hazards linked to rising temperatures.
Items such as aerosol cans, lithium-ion batteries, gas canisters, fireworks, and certain cleaning chemicals can become unstable or flammable in confined, heat-prone environments such as sheds, garages, lofts, and parked cars.
The warning coincides with growing concerns across the insurance sector about the impact of heat-related incidents on property claims. According to the latest Home Office data, more than 27,000 dwelling fires were recorded in England in 2023. While not all were weather-related, fire services have reported increased activity during warmer months, often linked to improper storage of flammable or pressurised items.
Aerosol products, such as deodorants and air fresheners, can rupture or ignite when exposed to high temperatures. Lithium batteries, commonly found in e-cigarettes and portable devices, have been associated with a number of domestic fires. Gas canisters used for barbecues and camping are also sensitive to heat and may experience a pressure build-up. Unused fireworks, often stored after seasonal events, and certain cleaning products like bleach can also pose a risk when kept in overheated or poorly ventilated conditions.
Chorlton Fireworks has advised households to assess storage locations for heat-sensitive items, avoid leaving such products in vehicles, and ensure any damaged or expired fireworks are disposed of safely. It also recommends that flammable goods be stored in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight.
The insurance industry continues to track weather-linked risks, including those stemming from prolonged heat exposure. Insurers are expected to review underwriting strategies and customer guidance as warmer temperatures become more common and claims patterns shift.
With forecasts suggesting increasingly frequent heatwaves in the coming years, both fire services and insurers are encouraging more awareness around household safety during high-temperature periods.
