A WOMAN has been airlifted to hospital with serious burns after a container exploded in her face.

Police, paramedics and firefighters were all called to the incident in Laburnum Road, Blackburn, and the 23-year-old woman was treated for burns to her face and upper body at the scene before being airlifted to Wythenshawe Hospital.

It is believed the woman was burning garden waste in a brazier container and allegedly poured accelerant in to it, causing an explosion which could be heard by neighbours.

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The incident happened around 5.10pm on Thursday and the woman was still receiving treatment yesterday. Her injuries have been described as serious but not life-threatening.

Two fire engines from Blackburn Station attended the incident and supported paramedics in treating the woman.

A fire service spokesman said the fire was already out when they had been called by paramedics and the only equipment they used was an oxygen mask and burns cream.

The incident has sparked a safety warning, with firefighters highlighting of the dangers of using accelerants.

A fire service spokesman said: "We received a call from the ambulance service at around 5.10pm on Thursday saying a female had been using an accelerant which had flashed back and burned her.

"There was no suggestion of a fire still being lit at the time. We were requested to go as a formality.

"Two crews from Blackburn Station attended and assisted the ambulance crews who was there. An incident intelligence officer has been assigned to the case."

The fire service have issued the following information having a barbecue or an outdoor fire. Tips include; only use recognised lighters or starter fuels are used, never use accelerants such as paraffin or petrol to start fires, ensure the site is flat and well away from any trees, sheds or fences, and keep a bucket of water or a garden hose close by in case of emergencies.

A police spokesman added: "We were called by the ambulance service at 5.10pm on Thursday to reports of an incident in Laburnum Road, Blackburn. A woman, aged 23, has filled a brazier container with garden waste. It is thought she used some sort of accelerant to light it. There has been some sort of explosion and she has suffered burns to her upper body and face. She was taken to Wythenshawe Hospital where she remains."