A Leicestershire mother has described the terrifying moment her family home was completely destroyed by a massive explosion - all triggered by a bottle of nail varnish remover.
Kelly Stewart, 38, was performing a routine cleaning task when disaster struck without warning. The mother-of-four had been using acetone-based nail polish remover to clean a pair of shoes when the unthinkable happened.
The Warning Signs
"I'd just started cleaning when I noticed this really strong smell of nail varnish remover," Kelly recalled. "It was overwhelming, but I never imagined what would happen next."
Within moments, the family's world turned into chaos. A massive explosion ripped through their Coalville property, reducing their cherished home to rubble in seconds.
Miraculous Escape
In what can only be described as a miracle, Kelly and her four children managed to escape the devastating blast with only minor injuries. The family had been in different rooms when the explosion occurred, potentially saving them from more serious harm.
"The whole house just went," Kelly said, still visibly shaken by the experience. "One minute we were going about our day, the next our home was completely gone."
Understanding the Danger
Fire safety experts have since explained that acetone - the primary ingredient in many nail polish removers - is highly flammable and can create explosive vapours when concentrated in enclosed spaces.
These vapours are heavier than air and can travel significant distances, potentially finding ignition sources like pilot lights, electrical switches, or even static electricity.
Aftermath and Recovery
The explosion, which occurred on Whitwick Road, was so powerful that it damaged neighbouring properties and could be heard throughout the local area. Emergency services rushed to the scene, with fire crews working tirelessly to make the area safe.
The Stewart family have lost virtually all their possessions and are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch. Local community members have rallied around the family, offering support and donations to help them through this traumatic period.
Safety Warning for Households
This shocking incident serves as a crucial reminder about the potential dangers lurking in everyday household products. Fire safety officials emphasise the importance of:
- Always using chemicals in well-ventilated areas
- Storing flammable products safely away from heat sources
- Reading and following manufacturer's instructions carefully
- Being aware of potential ignition sources in the home
As Kelly and her family begin the long process of recovery, their story stands as a powerful warning about how quickly ordinary household tasks can turn catastrophic.
