Urgent Warning: Heating Squishy Toys Sparks Burn Crisis

Doctors are issuing critical warnings about a dangerous online trend where children microwave "squishy" toys, resulting in severe burns. Videos circulating online encourage heating these toys to enhance their flexibility. However, this process causes internal pressure buildup, leading to explosions. The released hot gel can adhere to skin, causing deep and prolonged burns. The Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow has treated six children for injuries related to this trend within the past eight months. Some cases necessitated surgical intervention, including skin grafts. Joseph Erskine, an eight-year-old, required extensive treatment and a graft after a toy burst on his chest and hand. Another patient, 11-year-old Scarlet Rowe, sustained burns to her face and eyelid. Burns specialists emphasize that the gel's prolonged heat retention exacerbates these injuries, potentially leading to permanent scarring. Parents and caregivers are strongly advised to speak with children about these risks to prevent further incidents.