Fire risk warning issued over giant lighter
THE public are being warned of the potential dangers of some extra large cigarette lighters after finding some on sale in the Highlands.
Highland Council’s trading standards say the lighters have failed safety tests.
Officers were alerted by colleagues in other parts of the country to the potential risks.
The lighters failed because they exhibited flaring during tests which means the flame is unpredictable and can cause injury.
"Our concern is that, given this time of year, as well as being held close to the face, these types of lighters may also be used to light barbecues and the risks to personal safety are obvious," said Gordon Robb, head of trading standards,
They are similar in style to normal size plastic disposable lighters but are about four to five times larger, approximately the size of an adult hand.
Mr Robb said lighters which failed safety standards had been removed from sale by officers.
"Our officers are currently investigating other types of extra large lighters being offered for sale in the Highlands to ensure they too comply with the relevant standards," he said.
"In these circumstances the actions of those local and national retailers that have voluntarily withdrawn suspect lighters from sale is commendable.
"While there have been no cases of reported incidents connected with this product in the Highlands, there have been elsewhere in the country and we are concerned that members of the public who have bought these may not be aware of the potential dangers.
"There are many varieties of this type of product available and we ask that both consumers and retailers follow our advice."
Anyone concerned is being advised to contact their retailer for assurance that the product is safe.
Retailers with any concerns should contact their suppliers immediately for evidence the product meets safety standards, say trading standards.
Consumers can also contact trading standards on 0845 600 4222 for further advice.
* The lighters that failed the standard are called "Big Lighters" and are approximately 16cm long and 4cm wide. They come in various colours. The particular make carry a label with reference codes WD393 and MGL and have the barcode number 5034913074976
