Warning over danger cigarette lighters
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HIGHLAND Council has sent out a warning about dangerous cigarette lighters which could give people using them a nasty burn.
The authority's trading standards has gone public about the items which are branded as Big Lighters.
They have been found on sale in the region despite failing safety tests.
Officers were alerted by colleagues in other parts of the country to the potential risks.
The lighters are similar in style to normal size plastic disposable lighters but are about fives times larger - around the size of an adult hand.
Mr Gordon Robb, Head of Trading Standards, said: “The particular lighters that failed the safety standards have been removed from sale by our 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 continued: “The lighters in question failed because they exhibited flaring during tests.
"This means the flame is not normal and is unpredictable, it 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.”
“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.”
Concerned members of the public are advised to contact their retailer for assurance that the product is safe or Highland Council Trading Standards Service on 0845 600 4222 for further advice.
