Warning

2004-40
July 20, 2004
For immediate release

Health Canada Warns Canadians to Stop Using "Patio Chef" Refillable Utility Lighters

OTTAWA - Health Canada is advising the Canadian public to stop using "Patio Chef" brand refillable utility lighters. The lighters pose potential fire, injury and burn hazards because they may be affected by combustion problems.

In certain instances, the lighters produce a shower of burning fuel which separates from the main flame. Moreover, the flame can increase suddenly to an excessive height of 14 cm (5.5 inches). These lighters can also leak gas when exposed to heat.

The lighter is approximately 27 cm (11 inches) long with a red handle and a shiny metal igniter shaft. The lighter has a black plastic trigger and a black on/off switch which carries a yellow label on the handle that indicates a warning. Printed on the back of the package are the words: "Imported by/Importé par S.R. Potten Ltd., Montreal, Quebec, Canada". The lighters bear identification numbers 014009 and 014010.

From 2002 to 2004, these lighters were sold by retail stores in Canada, including (but not limited to): Zellers, Matco Ravary, Jean Coutu, Hart, Bargain Giant, Fredericton Co-Op and Rona. People who have the Patio Chef refillable utility lighters are advised to stop using them immediately and to dispose of them in accordance with local requirements.

For further information, or to report a lighter-related incident, contact the Health Canada Product Safety Office nearest you:

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Photographs of product

Media Inquiries:
Margot Geduld/Carole Saindon
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991