Warning for automatic heating of tables against the backdrop of carbon monoxide alarm alerts

A warning about self-heating meals has been issued by a fire service amid a spate of carbon monoxide alarms. Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service have warned residents against using self-heating kits indoors.

The service said the kits were ingenious and relied on an “exothermic” chemical reaction – a heat-producing reaction – produced by adding water to a base on which the food is placed. The service said the products are not dangerous when used outside or when camping because of the amount of ventilation.

But he said using them indoors risked exposing people to dangerous carbon monoxide gas, which is released during the reaction. Dozens of calls have been recorded in recent weeks.

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A fire service spokesman said: “Crews from HWFRS have attended incidents where these kits have been used in a confined space setting off carbon monoxide alarms.

“Although these products are not dangerous when used outside or when camping, due to proper ventilation, using them indoors can expose you to dangerous carbon monoxide, which is released during the reaction. Please use their kits as directed and NEVER indoors.”

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