[26 January 2007]

Urgent Warning from Fire & Rescue Service.

Microwaves should not be used for sterilising kitchen sponges.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) is urging the public in Sussex to ignore recent advice to sterilise kitchen sponges and dishcloths in microwaves.

The stark warning comes after a recent report was issued by Professor Gabriel Bitton, a specialist in environmental engineering at the University of Florida. The professor claimed that household germs contained in a kitchen sponge or dishcloth would be killed if the item was placed in a microwave oven on full power for a period of two minutes.

“Using a microwave to sterilise a dishcloth in this way is extremely dangerous.” said Chris Pascoe, Head of Community Safety at East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.“We are very concerned that anyone attempting to do so would be putting themselves and their property at serious risk. There are too many variable factors to think about such as the power of the microwave oven or the moisture content of the dishcloth or sponge - it really is a recipe for disaster and we would urge the public to ignore these claims. Only use a microwave for its intended purpose.”

One householder in Telford has already been involved in a fire after attempting to sterilise a dishcloth in a microwave. Fortunately, Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service was able to contain the fire in the oven.

Chris Pascoe of ESFRS continued: “Please listen to our advice. Attempting to use an electrical item like a microwave in this way could result in your home being badly damaged or destroyed - don't risk it for a dishcloth!”

[The Priory Partnership]