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Consumer Product Safety

Utility lighters are dangerous in the hands of children!

2005
ISBN: 0-662-69214-4
Cat No.: H128-1/05-435

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Utility lighters are dangerous in the hands of children!(PDF Version will open in a new window) (76K)


Barbecque lighters are dangerous in the hands of children!People use utility lighters to start barbecues and to light campfires, fireplaces, wood stoves and candles. They are easy to use around the house and easy to take when you go camping.

Utility lighters are also called:

  • barbeque lighters, or
  • multi-purpose lighters.

Utility lighters are made to be used by adults.
Utility lighters are NOT safe for children.


Children find it easy to use these lighters.
Even a small child can figure out how to pull the trigger.
Utility lighters are not toys!

Safety Tips

Instructions
  • Keep all lighters out of sight and out of reach of children.
  • Buy a utility lighter that says "child-resistant" on the package.
  • Do not leave a lighter outside. The weather can damage the plastic. If this happens, the fuel inside may leak out or the lighter may break open.
  • BEFORE you use it, read all the instructions that come with the utility  lighter.
  • If you use one of these lighters to start a gas barbecue, always turn on the lighter BEFORE you turn on the barbecue's gas or propane.
  • Keep fire safety in mind. Show children what to do if there is a fire at home or when you are camping.

For more information contact Product Safety, Health Canada.

Last Updated: 2005-09-20 Top