The London Fire Brigade has warned that emollient creams containing flammable ingredients such as paraffin, petroleum or natural oils can increase fire risk in care settings. According to the Brigade, these creams are widely used to treat conditions like eczema, psoriasis or pressure sores and are often prescribed to people with limited mobility, who are more vulnerable in the event of a fire.
The Brigade has advised care homes and carers to switch to non-flammable alternatives and ensure that all residents have personalised fire risk plans that account for cigarette use, skin cream application and oxygen therapy. The Brigade’s safety campaign has been supported by the family of Cedric Skyers, a 69-year-old care home resident who died following a fire in March 2016.
An investigation found that although a smoking risk assessment had been carried out, it failed to consider the fire risk posed by emollient creams, which can build up on skin, clothes and bedding, making them more likely to ignite.
Following Cedric Skyers’ death, the London Fire Brigade brought a prosecution against BUPA under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The company pleaded guilty to breaching its fire safety responsibilities at the Brockley care home.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Craig Carter said: “This is a harrowing case where failure to comply with fire safety regulations had fatal consequences. Cedric was vulnerable and his death could have been avoided.” Craig Carter added: “Every resident should have a plan in place which accounts for their mobility, their use of cigarettes, flammable skin creams and oxygen equipment.” He continued: “Care home staff can help to keep residents safe by encouraging them not to smoke, especially if they could drop their cigarette, become disoriented, or tend to fall asleep while smoking.”
Craig Carter said: “We’re urging care home providers and carers to seek support and utilise the resources on the London Fire Brigade website to ensure they have taken the necessary precautions to keep their residents safe.”
According to the London Fire Brigade, the number of fires in care homes and supported living facilities rose from 11 to 41 in December 2024, marking a three-year high.
The Brigade has written to the Care Quality Commission requesting action in response to this increase. The Brigade reported that smoking and cooking were the two leading causes of these incidents.
It has encouraged formal and informal carers to use the Brigade’s online Home Fire Safety Checker and to book free home fire safety visits for tailored advice and support. The Brigade advises switching to emollient creams free from paraffins, petroleum or natural oils and recommends that residents maintain distance from heaters and avoid open flames near clothing or bedding.
