NAPA Home and Garden Inc., Firepot Under CPSC investigation

The Consumer Product and Safety Commission started an investigation last week into serious burn incidents connected to gel fuel that is used in firepots.

While the investigation is still ongoing, consumers should be aware of the potential hazards including severe burn injuries can occur from using illuminating fuels in firepots, tiki torches, and other products.  Given the number of serious burn injuries reported over the past couple of weeks, you should strongly consider not using these products at all. As evidenced in the attachment, Bed Bath and Beyond has pulled the product from its shelf pending the CPSC investigation.  CPSC staff suggests that a person never refuel a hot product as this can burn those nearby by causing the fuel to splatter. Adding fuel to an open-flame is a potentially hazardous activity, with a risk of uncontrolled fires and severe burns. 

The safety commission also said it is important to follow proper safety guidelines when refueling any open-flame device. CPSC staff suggested that consumers first look for flames, then carefully feel the surrounding area of the flame, as flames are sometimes difficult to see. Only add fuel when the flames are extinguished and the container is cold to the touch.

Never dispense fuel over an open flame.

Consumers should keep the fuel out of the reach of young children and when not in use, store it in a safe place away from children. Make sure you always firmly replace the child resistant cap after use.

Most illuminating fuels are sold in special child-resistant packaging because they generally contain a specific class of chemicals. This class of chemicals is hazardous if ingested and pushed into the lungs, where it can cause chemical pneumonia, pulmonary edema, or death. Illuminating fuels should never be moved to other containers, as young children may mistake the new container with a common drink item.

If you need legal advice, we recommend that you seek the advice of a licensed attorney. If you have any questions about this blog and/or need to talk with a South Carolina burn injury attorney, contact us today for a free, no cost consultation to discuss your legal rights. 803.252.4800. At Strom Law Firm, LLC, our South Carolina personal injury and criminal defense attorneys provide comprehensive legal services designed to protect your rights and your interests. Our lawyers are licensed in South Carolina, New York, and Georgia.