A house fire in Greater Manchester has raised safety concerns that may be relevant to grassroots football families, following reports that an electrical device commonly used to dry sports boots may have been involved in the incident.

A family home was left heavily smoke-damaged and uninhabitable after a fire broke out in a garage at a residential property. The fire is reported to be under investigation, with an electric boot-drying device among the items believed to be a possible factor. The device had reportedly been used to dry children’s sports boots, a common practice in grassroots football households, particularly during winter months.

The occupant returned home to find the property filling with smoke and contacted the emergency services. Fire crews attended and brought the situation under control; however, the damage to the home was extensive. The family — two adults and two children — are understood to have temporarily relocated while repairs are assessed, which may take a significant period of time.

“It was terrifying,” she said. “We are so lucky to be alive. Ten minutes later and my whole house would have fully burnt down.”

The individual later described the experience as overwhelming, explaining that the smell appeared electrical in nature. Firefighters subsequently confirmed that opening the garage door could have presented additional danger at the time.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed attendance at the incident and stated:

“At shortly after 11.10am on Tuesday, January 13, three fire engines from Rochdale and Oldham fire station were called to a fire involving the garage of a detached house on Whitebeam Close, Oldham.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used hose reels to extinguish the fire and made the area safe alongside partners.

“The suspected cause of the fire was a fault with an electric device.”

The product referenced in reports was advertised as a “portable quick-dry shoe dryer” with a “220 volt British plug” and has since been removed from sale on TikTok Shop while further enquiries take place.

TikTok said: “We take the safety of our customers extremely seriously and we’re concerned to hear about this incident.
We have removed this product from our platform whilst we fully investigate this issue.”

A spokesperson for TeamGrassroots said the incident highlights the importance of ongoing safety awareness within the grassroots football community:

“Safety must always be the most important thing — especially when it comes to children and families. While investigations are ongoing, this situation is concerning because it involves a type of product commonly found in grassroots football households.”

They added:

“We would encourage parents, coaches, and volunteers to take a moment to review any electrical products used to dry boots or sports kit, particularly those purchased online. If there are any concerns around safety, certification, or condition, the product should not be used.”

“Grassroots football relies on families and volunteers, and ensuring their safety — both at home and around the game — must always come first.”

Legal Disclaimer

This post is shared for general safety awareness purposes only. All information referenced is based on reports available at the time of publication. The cause of the incident described remains subject to investigation, and no conclusions should be drawn regarding liability, fault, or product safety beyond what has been officially confirmed by the relevant authorities.

TeamGrassroots does not make any determination as to the cause of the incident and does not allege wrongdoing by any individual, organisation, or manufacturer. References to products or platforms are included solely in the context of public reporting and official statements.

Readers are encouraged to seek independent, professional advice regarding electrical safety and to follow guidance issued by manufacturers, retailers, and recognised safety authorities.