Warning

1997-32
May 2, 1997

Windproof refillable lighters imported by Y&U; International Inc. fail safety tests

OTTAWA - The Health Protection Branch (HPB) of Health Canada is warning consumers not to use windproof refillable cigarette lighters recently imported by Y&U; International of Toronto/Scarborough, Ontario.

These lighters can be identified as follows:

• Pen-shaped lighter; stamped J.G. Seaoverload (display box marked J.G.)
• Copper-coloured, rectangular lighter; stamped FRUPI (display box marked Curiosity Menghu)
• ylindrical-shaped key fob lighter; stamped ZPC Tiger Brand
• Gold-coloured lighter, shaped like 3 cylinders with a silver-coloured eagle crest applique; GLP stamped on bottom
• Silver-coloured parrot-shaped novelty lighter
• Copper-coloured crocodile-shaped novelty lighter
• Plastic novelty lighter with granite-like appearance
• Gold-coloured rectangular flip top lighter with black plastic inlay
• Silver-coloured rectangular flip top lighter with detailed scroll work
• Simulated leather, reddish brown-coloured flip top rectangular lighter with silver-coloured dragon emblem applique; stamped American Light

The majority of these products have been distributed by Rob Guy Marketing of New Westminster, B.C.

Health Canada testing concluded that these lighters do not meet safety regulations. They have excessive flame heights, spurt droplets of fuel from the burner when used and continue to burn for longer than 10 seconds after the lever is released, which is five times the regulated limit of two seconds. These lighters can also give minor electric shocks when used, release fuel when they are dropped and burst into flames.

Health Protection Branch advises Canadians to stop further use of these windproof refillable lighters and to dispose of them in accordance with local laws.

The importer of this product, Y&U; International Inc. is cooperating with Health Canada and has voluntarily initiated a recall across Canada. Health Protection Branch is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.

Consumers can contact the nearest regional Health Protection Branch of Health Canada if they have any questions concerning this matter.

• Vancouver (604) 666-5003
• Edmonton (403) 495-2480
• Calgary (403) 292-5613
• Winnipeg (204) 983-5490
• Hamilton (905) 572-2845
• Toronto (416) 973-4705
• Montreal (514) 646-1353
• Quebec (418) 648-4327
• Moncton (506) 851-6638
• Dartmouth (902) 426-8300
• St.John's (709) 772-4050

Media inquiries:
Bonnie Fox-McIntyre/Monique Renaud-Gagné
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991