Annie Thomas, 28, from Nottingham, is warning others about the dangers of hot water bottles after suffering severe burns when one exploded onto her stomach and thighs. She hadn’t noticed the bottle’s expiry date and filled it with boiling water before it burst. Annie described the pain as feeling like being “burnt alive” and spent hours soaking in cold water before seeking medical treatment.
Doctors at Queen’s Medical Centre treated her burns, popping and peeling blisters before bandaging her wounds. Although her injuries are healing, Annie expects some scarring. She’s urging people to check their hot water bottles’ expiration dates, typically two years after manufacture, marked by a daisy wheel symbol.
Annie’s experience highlights safety tips for hot water bottle use: avoid pouring boiling water directly in, add cold water to lower the temperature, and expel air before sealing. She’s since shared her story widely to prevent similar accidents, emphasizing the importance of replacing outdated hot water bottles.
This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards of seemingly harmless household items, especially during the winter months when their use is more frequent.
