North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is reminding residents of the importance of keeping aerosols and compressed gas canisters stored in a cool place away from direct heat or sunlight after a small explosion involving a compressed gas canister within an air freshener device at a house in Wrexham.

Two crews from Wrexham were called to the house on Palmer Street, Smithfield, Wrexham at 18.53hrs yesterday (Sunday December 14) after on automatic air freshener housing a compressed gas canister had been left on a wood burner and overheated.

The explosion caused damage to the window and the ceiling of the property.

Jane Honey from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “These residents are very lucky that they were not in the room at the time of the explosion.

“These automatic air fresheners contain compressed gas canisters which should be treated with safety as you would with regular aerosols – always read and follow the safety instructions printed on the item or aerosol can and store in a cool, secure, well ventilated location. Safely dispose of any aerosol can that shows any sign of stress or damage.

“North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offers free home safety checks, where a member of the Service will visit your home, give fire safety hints and tips, help you to formulate a fire escape plan and fit new alarms - all free of charge. This service is available to all residents in North Wales.

“To register for a free home fire safety check, please call the 24 hour free hotline on 0800 169 1234 or visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk.”