Kitchen Fire in Gravesend Linked to Uncooled Heat Pad; Cats Rescued

A kitchen blaze, which necessitated the rescue of two cats, is believed to have been caused by a microwaveable heat pad. On Sunday, two fire appliances responded to the incident in Cerne Road, Gravesend. According to a spokesperson for the Kent Fire and Rescue Service, both felines received oxygen treatment using specialized pet oxygen masks. They confirmed that no other casualties were documented. “The fire is believed to have started accidentally, and has been linked to a microwaveable heat pad that had been put in the kitchen bin before being fully cooled,” the spokesperson further stated. These heat pads are frequently designed for reuse and serve to alleviate discomfort in muscles or joints. The fire department issued a cautionary statement, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that any item that has been heated or warmed is completely cooled prior to its disposal. This guidance encompasses articles like heat pads, smoking paraphernalia, or residual ash from fireplaces and log burners. For updates, follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.