Latest news with #flammability
Mail & Guardian
04-08-2025
- Science
- Mail & Guardian
UCT study finds exotic plants fuel Cape Town wildfires
A study conducted in the aftermath of the Table Mountain fire in April 2021 shows that exotic plants found in Cape Town's urban areas may intensify the risks of wildfires. Certain exotic plants found in Cape Town's urban areas may intensify the The A team of scientists at the University of Cape Town's South African Journal of Botany . Their goal: to examine how plant leaf characteristics influence flammability in an urban setting. 'While laboratory tests alone cannot fully predict how plants behave in real-world fires, they offer valuable insight into key characteristics that influence ignition, burn duration and intensity,' said 'This information is essential for natural hazard planning, especially in The authors analysed 42 plant species — 22 native and 20 exotic — for leaf functional traits and key flammability components: ignitibility, sustainability and combustibility. Their results showed that exotic species generally ignited faster and exhibited higher combustibility than native species. Conversely, native species tended to burn longer but at lower intensities. 'Leaf functional traits such as thickness, specific leaf area and leaf surface area were significantly correlated with flammability measures,' the study said. 'Exotic plants were particularly flammable due to traits like large leaf surface area, higher specific leaf area and thin leaves.' Further results showed that plants that burned in the 2021 fire were mainly associated with combustibility and moderate ignitibility, while those that partially burned tended to have thicker leaves. Those that didn't burn were associated with longer ignition times. The authors said the findings emphasise the role of some exotic ornamental plants in increasing fire risk in urban areas. The study noted how the April 2021 Table Mountain fire was attributed to the abundance of exotic plants, which easily caught fire during the event. Two of the main exotic plants were at its epicentre: Phoenix canariensis The Canary Island date palm is a popular ornamental tree planted along Cape Town's boulevards and near buildings, posing a significant fire hazard. The April 2021 wildfire began on the slopes of Table Mountain National Park. It spread rapidly due to a build-up of debris from exotic trees and other indigenous plants. Wind-carried embers caused spot fires that destroyed multiple buildings — including parts of the university. 'The way that different localities surrounding the university were engulfed in flames, and the fire's expansion into nearby areas in Cape Town, suggested that spot fires were ignited by wind-blown embers at distances up to 350m away from the main fire line,' the study noted. The fire crossed barriers such as the M3 highway and rugby fields, demonstrating the limited effectiveness of fire breaks in such intense conditions. More than 650ha was burned, and the loss of infrastructure will take years to recover. The study warned that wildfire risk is increasing globally, especially in Mediterranean-type ecosystems such as the Western Cape, because of climate change and flammable exotic species. 'Our region, like other Mediterranean regions, has hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters; however, with climate change, there is an overall trend showing that while atmospheric moisture levels have increased and rainfall events are becoming more intense globally, there is also an increase in the amount of evapotranspiration [moisture loss] occurring,' said lead author This means that although there is rain during the winter months, a lot of evaporation occurs in the hotter months, making everything drier. 'In the last century of global warming, there has also been an increase in the frequency of occurrences of extreme events such as heatwaves and droughts,' she said. 'This all amplifies the risk of intense fires all over the world, as it leads to drying out of vegetation faster, including plants in gardens, green belts and in urban spaces, therefore increasing their flammability.' At this point, exotic species, especially those with high oil content in their leaves and abundant biomass, 'become very dangerous fire fuels', MacAlister said. Muasya said that exotic species that combine large, thin leaves with tall, woody growth and high retention of dry or dead foliage are of particular concern. 'These characteristics dramatically increase combustibility and the ability to trap burning embers, especially under windy conditions. 'Species such as Cedrus atlantica [a species in the pine family], Cupressus sp [cypress], Hedera canariensis [Canary ivy] and, in particular, Phoenix canariensis and Piinus pinea [stone pine], are also a problem in other Mediterranean areas, such as California, with policies warning stakeholders to avoid planting them as they are flammable, invasive or both,' he said. Fire-prone Mediterranean shrublands — including those in South Africa, California, Australia, and southern Europe — are increasingly facing extreme fire events known as megafires (fires greater than 10 000 hectares). The study cites the The severity of the Knysna wildfires has been primarily attributed to the extensive fuel load caused by exotic plants in the region, an expansive wildland-urban interface, unprecedented droughts prior to the fire and very high fire danger weather conditions. Become fire smart 'Urban greening projects need to be fire smart,' MacAlister said. 'This means avoiding high-flammability species in zones such as homes, schools or infrastructure and prioritising low-flammability native species.' She emphasised the need to integrate knowledge of fuel loads, leaf litter and fire behaviour into planning decisions — and not just aesthetics and biodiversity goals. 'Our research highlights the importance of assessing species flammability as part of plant selection. A great example is 'All that biomass sitting in the tree only adds more fuel to the fire, and as my paper shows, the Canary Island palm [trees] are very combustible, giving off a lot of heat during fires and therefore allowing the spread of fire to happen easier.' She frequently thinks about how flammable the Cape Town suburb of Pinelands is. 'There are palms and pines planted all over the suburb, and many houses have thatched roofs, making the idea of a fire occurring in the area even more terrifying.' She advocates for replacing exotic vegetation with fire-adapted native species, which can restore biodiversity and offer aesthetic and ecological benefits without the same fire risk. 'Removing exotic species from native vegetation, especially those shown to increase fire risks, like certain invasive trees and shrubs, can significantly improve ecological resilience and reduce the likelihood of severe wildfires.' The removal of exotic species must be done thoughtfully. 'This is especially in places where they dominate, as their sudden removal could lead to habitat gaps and soil erosion if their removal is not followed up with active restoration of the area.' Replacing these species with native vegetation, particularly those adapted to the local climate, can enhance natural biodiversity, restore ecological functioning and reduce long-term fire risks. 'Many native species, including trees and shrubs, can offer aesthetic value, shade, and most importantly, habitats for local wildlife, without the same flammability risks.' Every year, Cape Town and surrounding areas experience hotter summers, and there is news of intense fires breaking out during the summer season, she said. 'Climate groups indicate worsening fire conditions in the coming decades, particularly in fire-prone regions like Cape Town and the Western Cape. We can't wait for fires to occur before doing something.' Planning and policy must embrace proactive planning instead of reactive responses. 'We need to prioritise vegetation management as part of the fire mitigation strategies, which can be challenging in itself due to the fynbos biome being fire prone. 'However, removing high-risk species, restoring native vegetation in these areas, and maintaining fire breaks can significantly reduce the risk of high-intensity fires that reach urban areas in the future.'
WIRED
22-07-2025
- Health
- WIRED
What You Should Know About Fiberglass and Chemicals in Flame Retardant Mattresses
When it comes to flame retardants, fiberglass is unhealthy, but many chemicals are worse. Here's what you need to know about buying a safe new mattress. All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. What do mattresses and a box of matches have in common? It's not just that they're both rectangular—both can can be very flammable if you're not careful. Mattresses have historically posed a significant fire hazard, and they still can without careful attention to the materials used. In the US, an estimated 20,800 residential fires occurred due to mattresses and bedding igniting from flame exposure between 1996 and 1998, according to FEMA. At that time, fires involving mattresses and bedding were causing double the death and injury of all residential structure fires. Something had to be done, and the solution was the incorporation of fire retardants. While they don't make a bed fully fireproof, they slow the spread of fire and ultimately prevent sleepers from becoming the Human Torch. New federal standards for mattress flammability took effect in July 2007. But some of the new fire retardants used have created concerns about other health affects, especially if the worst comes to pass and it does ignite. What could you potentially be breathing in, or coming into contact with—and are there long-term repercussions from that exposure? To understand what makes a mattress safe from and in fires, we need to understand the different forms of flame retardant and how they perform in various scenarios. Fiberglass: Friend or Foe? Fiberglass has been the fire barrier of choice for many a mattress for a long time. You can usually find it in one of two places: the mattress cover, or a thin internal sleeve that's usually called a 'fire sock.' Fiberglass is very good as a flame retardant since it won't burn and has an extremely high melting point, 2,237 degrees Fahrenheit. It's a cheap material that's easy to integrate into a mattress. But fiberglass has some serious drawbacks. If it splinters off and is inhaled or touched, it can cause significant damage to your skin or internal organs. Consumers have become increasingly aware of this problem, and pushback against mattresses with a fiberglass layer has become prevalent on social media, like a fairly recent wave of posts on TikTok. Mattresses that do contain fiberglass have to say so on the attached label. The mattress tag may not, however, show what fire retardant chemicals are being used in the mattress instead. This is where certifications, careful research, and the recommendation of trusted testers are going to be crucial in picking the right product. WIRED, for example, does not recommend beds that contain fiberglass. What Are the Alternatives? We opt to test mattresses that have certifications to behold. While things like CertiPUR-US certification only lends itself to memory foam, it still points to a safer sleep experience. But to bypass fiberglass altogether, there are many alternatives to consider. Here are some of the most common in mattresses we have tested: Wool contains two major elements that aren't flame-friendly: nitrogen and water. It requires some serious heat to catch fire (around 1,060 to 1,115 degrees Fahrenheit). Even, then it isn't the easiest to burn and may take more time to smolder before ultimately snuffing the fire out itself. Similarly, cashmere and mohair (courtesy of Angora goats) are naturally fire-resistant animal-based materials that prevent the spread of flame. They too contain a lot of moisture and will shrivel up like wool when subjected to flame. Rayon can be derived from the wood pulp from a variety of plant sources—for example, we often see it in bamboo sheets. It's classified as a 'semi-synthetic fiber' because it requires pretty serious chemical treatment in order to be transformed from a pulpy goo to the finished material. To make it fire resistant, though, rayon requires the use of silica. When subjected to flame, this mineral creates a char barrier that halts flames from progressing. Silica treatments can serve as a fire barrier in other materials as well. Synthetic fibers, namely nylon and polyester, are both heavily plastic-based. Simply put, they require very high levels of heat to melt. 'Melt' is the key word here, as even when subjected to flame exposure, the first reaction isn't to self-ignite. What to Avoid Aside from fiberglass, there are a few other flame retardants you want to avoid. The good news is that for the most part, you shouldn't encounter many of these, as the majority have been banned over health concerns. But if something feels amiss, it's a go-with-your-gut situation. Are there noxious chemical smells coming from the bed? Is your skin reacting to it? Do you think you're breathing weird after sleeping on it? Double-check the legal tag, and reach out to customer service to confirm what's being used in the bed. But it still might not provide you all the answers you're seeking. Again, this is where material certifications are so important, because they verify the absence of these things in the finished product. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are known as 'forever chemicals' because once they enter the body, they make themselves permanently at home. While they work as a fire barrier, they can have long-term health ramifications after exposure, resulting in various forms of neurological and hormonal disorders. However, their usage in mattresses has been mostly phased out for these reasons. Decabromodiphenyl oxide (DecaBdE) is similar to PBDEs in that it doesn't vacate the body. While it's been banned from use since 2013, it was used in mattresses, textiles, and plastic products. Long-term accumulation can lead outcomes similar to those of PBDEs, like reproductive, thyroid, neurological, and liver disorders. Chlorinated tris (TDCPP) is another chemical flame retardant that can be found in some polyurethane foams, whether that be a mattress, piece of furniture, or clothing. It was banned in California back in 2020 and is listed on the Proposition 65 chemical list that could lead to serious long-term ramifications. Antimony trioxide can be used in foam and plastic production as a flame-resistant substance, but it has been studied for carcinogenic outcomes. It, too, is on California's Proposition 65 chemical list. Organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPFRS) were used as an alternative to PBDEs, especially as a flame retardant in foams, furniture, and tech products. Unfortunately, more research is coming to light on the downsides of OPFRs. Exposure can be linked to potential birth defects, can complicate pregnancies (like premature birth), and can cause health issues neurologically and hormonally for children in particular. Boric acid can be used as a flame retardant. But it's also used as insecticide. Melamine is common for plastic products, especially for kitchen usage. Where it gets tricky is that as a flame retardant, it can release health-compromising fumes that are dangerous to breathe in—like hydrogen cyanide. Skin exposure can also mean potential serious neurological and kidney damage. Products That Fit the Bill The surest ways to get a safe mattress are to stick with reputable domestic brands and consider an organic mattress. We have an entire guide dedicated to the best organic mattresses, including some of our favorites below. Photograph: Melissa Krused/Avocado Mattress Photograph: Scott Gilbertson Photograph: Scott Gilbertson This mattress really takes the cake when it comes to showing how natural it is. There are numerous organic certifications. While latex by itself isn't fully fireproof, it is pretty impervious to heat—making it just another layer of supportive security. With many chemical flame retardants being especially harmful for kids, sticking to organic mattresses can bring parents some peace of mind. WIRED reviewer Scott Gilbertson got this particular bed for his kids, who really enjoyed it for both sleeping and jumping on. Only You Can Prevent (Mattress) Fires Take precautions when using any flame near your bed—you don't want to have a live demo of its flame barrier if you don't have to. If you light candles in the evening, especially near your bedside, blow them out before you leave the room or fall sleep. Don't smoke or vape in bed, as a spark from ash or even a vape malfunctioning could ignite a mattress fire. Keep an eye on how close your bed is to electrical outlets and where you have things plugged in, like your phone charger. Lastly, make sure fire safety is common knowledge amongst family members and roommates, just to be on the safe side. You could follow every precaution perfectly, but those around you may not know. So let's keep each other safe, Smokey the Bear style. But make it mattresses.
CNET
26-06-2025
- General
- CNET
100,000 Mattresses Sold on Amazon Are Being Recalled Due to Fire Risk. Here's What You Should Know
You'll want to check the tags if you purchased a mattress from Amazon within the past couple of years. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC), around 100,000 Crayan mattresses are being recalled due to flammability risks as of June 18, 2025. Here's how to check if you have one of these mattresses and how to receive a refund. What products are being recalled? The recall involves Crayan Mattresses' 10-inch and 12-inch beds (twin, full, queen and king sizes), sold on Amazon from June 2022 through June 2024. These beds are single-sided with a white-knit quilted top and gray side panels. The brand name 'Crayan' is stitched into the front foot panel in white letters. Crayan Mattresses' retailer, Foshanshi Liyue Jiaju Youxian Gongsi, dba Crayan Inc., is based in China. Its mattresses are manufactured in Japan and delivered compressed in a box. The price range for these mattresses is between $100 and $220. Here are examples of the tag labels on the recalled Crayan Mattresses. US Consumer Product Safety Commission Why are they being recalled? All mattresses and mattress pads sold in the US must meet the open flame flammability requirements established by the CPSC, known as 16 CFR 1633. Crayan Mattresses violate federal safety standards by failing to meet these requirements, posing a potential risk of serious injury or death from fire hazards. However, no incidents or injuries have been reported. What should you do? The first step is to immediately stop sleeping on your recalled mattresses and contact Crayan Mattresses for a refund. According to the CPSC, you will need to 'mark the mattresses permanently with the word 'Recalled' in large font across the white top panel.' Submit your photo of the mattress to the company's email at crayan_service@ to confirm your purchase, after which you should receive a full refund. If you have questions about the recall, you can call Crayan at 779-605-4458 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. If you're having trouble contacting the company or receiving your refund, you can fill out the Recall Complaint Form on the CPSC's website. If you're looking for a replacement mattress in the meantime, check out our roundup of the best mattresses of 2025. If you're on a budget, here are our favorite cheap mattresses.
Daily Mail
25-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Amazon recalls 100,000 mattresses over fire hazard
Published: Updated: Around 100,000 Americans are sleeping on mattresses that fail to meet federal flammability standards. Crayan, a mattress brand sold exclusively through Amazon, is offering full refunds to customers after its 10- and 12-inch models were found to violate US mattress regulations. Federal regulators require mattresses to pass flammability tests to help prevent fires from spreading rapidly while people are asleep — a risk that can turn deadly in seconds if a bed ignites. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) posted a recall bulletin for the mattress on June 18. No injuries have been reported from the product. The recall affects all Twin, Full, Queen, and King size mattresses sold between July 2022 and June 2024 for $100 to $200. The mattresses were made in Japan and sold by a China-based company through Amazon's platform. Each has a quilted white top, gray cotton sides, and 'Crayan' stitched into the foot of the bed. Officials warn owners to stop using the product immediately. Despite its safety failure, Crayan's website claims its mattresses are 'free from harmful substances, making them safe for you and your loved ones.' 'We prioritize your health and safety above all.' All of the products on the company's Amazon webpage are listed as 'currently unavailable.' The mattresses received mixed reviews from verified Amazon shoppers, with multiple buyers complaining about new products carrying a weird smell. 'It's comfortable, good sleeping comfort, but it still smells strong after 3 days,' one mattress topper buyer said in their three-star rating.
Daily Mail
25-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Amazon recalls 100,000 mattresses over terrifying fire hazard... are you sleeping on one?
Around 100,000 Americans are sleeping on mattresses that fail to meet federal flammability standards. Crayan, a mattress brand sold exclusively through Amazon, is offering full refunds to customers after its 10- and 12-inch models were found to violate US mattres regulations. Federal regulators require mattresses to pass flammability tests to help prevent fires from spreading rapidly while people are asleep — a risk that can turn deadly in seconds if a bed ignites. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) posted a recall bulletin for the mattress on June 18. No injuries have been reported from the product. The recall affects all Twin, Full, Queen, and King size mattresses sold between July 2022 and June 2024 for $100 to $200. The mattresses were made in Japan and sold by a China-based company through Amazon's platform. Each has a quilted white top, gray cotton sides, and 'Crayan' stitched into the foot of the bed. Officials warn owners to stop using the product immediately. Consumers should write the word 'Recalled' on the mattress's white surface, snap a photo, send it to crayan_service@ and then dispose of the mattress permanently. Crayan is contacting all known buyers and is required to provide full refunds to verified customers. Under federal law, it is illegal to resell or donate recalled products. Despite its safety failure, Crayan's website claims its mattresses are 'free from harmful substances, making them safe for you and your loved ones.' 'We prioritize your health and safety above all.' All of the products on the company's Amazon webpage are listed as 'currently unavailable.' The mattresses received mixed reviews from verified Amazon shoppers, with multiple buyers complaining about new products carrying a weird smell. 'It's comfortable, good sleeping comfort, but it still smells strong after 3 days,' one mattress topper buyer said in their three-star rating. Amazon's top boss, Andy Jassy, became CEO in July 2021 after running the company's tech-focused AWS network 'I hope they didn't use harmful preservatives like formaldehyde. Would like to know more about it.' Amazon didn't immediately respond to request for comment. Amazon products recalled The e-commerce giant has recently warned customers that dozens of products sold on its site have been recalled. In early June, the company posted about three sink faucets that tested positive for lead. Another 1.1 million phone chargers were recalled for a fire and explosion risk. In March, over 90,000 battery pack phone cases were recalled for another burning risk.
