Safe nightwear

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33582, 10 July 1974, Page 6

Safe nightwear

Nearly all fatal bums to children are because of clothes catching fire, says an article on safe nightwear for children in the winter issue of “Health,” the Department of Health magazine. Girls suffer more than boys because their frilly, flowing dresses and nightgowns are greater fire risks than boys’ close-fitting clothes. Loose garments can more easily brush against a source ai heat and catch fire. Their design acts as a chimney to spread flames faster and makes the flames bum more intensely. . Some clothing designs are much safer than others. Pyjamas are safer than nightgowns; track-suits or close-fitting dressing-gowns are safer than full-skirted I types; straight frocks are

safer than frilly, party styles, “Health” offers the following hints to increase the safety of children’s clothes, whether ready made or home made:— Use flame-resistant or slow-burning fabrics. Avoid fabrics with raised pile or nap. If used, have nap inside and line cuffs and hems with non-nap material. Make garments from one kind of material only. Don’t combine fabrics that have different burning properties. Sew all garments with non-flammable thread; cotton thread may act as a wick. Attach trimmings and appliques all the way round, don’t leave free edges. Avoid bows and frills, or at least keep them above elbows and waists.