A Birmingham mother has been left with severe second-degree burns in what doctors are calling a "devastating" hand sanitiser accident that could have been prevented.
Chloe, a 30-year-old resident from Kings Norton, was preparing a meal in her kitchen when the alcohol-based gel on her hands suddenly ignited, causing catastrophic burns to her arms and torso.
The Terrifying Moment Everything Changed
"I'd just used hand sanitiser and was cooking at the hob when there was a massive flash," Chloe recounted, still traumatised by the incident. "The pain was immediate and excruciating - unlike anything I've ever experienced."
The flammable liquid, which had become a household staple during the pandemic, transformed into an unexpected fire hazard in mere seconds.
Long Road to Recovery
Chloe faced weeks of intensive medical treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, where specialists worked to treat the deep tissue damage.
"The burns were so severe that I required multiple procedures and will likely have permanent scarring," she revealed. "The psychological impact has been just as challenging as the physical pain."
Critical Safety Advice from Experts
Medical professionals are issuing urgent warnings about the potential dangers of alcohol-based sanitisers:
- Always ensure hands are completely dry before approaching any heat source
- Wait at least five minutes after using sanitiser before cooking
- Consider using alternative hand cleaning methods when working in kitchens
- Keep sanitiser containers away from open flames and cooking areas
Burns specialist Dr. Sarah Jenkins emphasised: "Many people don't realise that these products contain high concentrations of alcohol, making them highly flammable until fully evaporated."
A Community Rallies Together
Friends and neighbours have launched a fundraising campaign to support Chloe during her recovery, highlighting the broader impact such accidents can have on victims' lives.
"The support has been overwhelming, but no amount of money can erase the physical and emotional scars," Chloe acknowledged, while expressing gratitude for the community's response.
This shocking incident serves as a crucial reminder that everyday products can pose unexpected risks when proper safety precautions aren't followed.
