I’ve been relying on sunscreen sprays a lot this summer for their quick, easy application. But these sprays frequently contain flammable ingredients, and the FDA in July warned consumers not to wear such products near an open flame. The agency issued this warning after becoming aware of “five separate incidents in which people wearing sunscreen spray near sources of flame suffered significant burns that required medical treatment,” according to the FDA’s website.
In all five cases, the burns occurred after the sunscreen spray had been applied. One person was lighting a cigarette; another was standing too close to a lit citronella candle, and someone else walked near a grill.
All of the sprays involved in these incidents have since been removed from the market, but the FDA said most sunscreen sprays still contain flammable chemicals.
For this reason, you should avoid applying a product near any source of a flame. The agency also advised consumers to consider daily plans before choosing which sunscreen to apply. If you’re heading to a barbeque or bonfire on the beach, for example, stick with the cream products.
“This recommendation is particularly important when it comes to choosing a product for children,” the FDA added, “since they are frequently active and may get near a flame source.”
For added summer safety, avoid these 5 other grilling mistakes that could be hazardous to your health.
