Kitchen bin fire linked to microwavable heat pad

A microwaveable heat pad is thought to be responsible for a kitchen fire from which two cats had to be rescued.

Two fire engines attended the fire in Cerne Road, Gravesend on Sunday.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said both cats needed oxygen therapy via specialist pet oxygen masks.

They said no other injuries were reported.

"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," they added.

Heat pads are often reusable and can be used to ease muscle or joint pain.

The fire service issued a reminder to always make sure anything that had been hot or warmed up is fully cooled down before being disposed of.

This would include items such as heat pads, smoking materials, or ash from fire places and log burners.

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