Blow-dryer causes shampoo can to explode, blowing bathroom door off hinges

A blow-dryerleft plugged in created enough heat to cause anaerosolcan of dry shampoo to explode in a northeast Calgary on Thursday afternoon, fire officials say.

A woman phoned 911 about 1 p.m. MT to report hearing an explosion on the second floor of her Coral Springs home.

She went upstairs andfounda bathroom door had been blown off the hinges and some towels were on fire, which she put out.

Fire crews arrived and found remnants of a small explosion and fire.

"The fire investigator determined that a hair-dryer which had been plugged increated enough heat to cause an aerosol dry shampoo can sitting nearby to explode with substantial force," said a release.

"The bathroom sustained damage to the door, cabinet and bathtub tiles as a result of the blast. The investigation will now focus on the hairdryer to determine any possible malfunction of the appliance."

The fire department also shared some fire prevention tips, including:

• Always unplug appliances such as curling irons, flat irons and blow-dryers that aren'tin use.
• When done using appliances that create heat, place them on a hard, non-combustible surface and away from anything that can burn, until they have cooled down.
• Use extreme caution with aerosol cans as they can cause a dangerous explosion if heated.
• Always read the manufacturers'instructions and warnings on all household products.
• Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home.

More fire safety information can be found online.