Warning
1996-18
February 20, 1996
Highly Flammable Fleece Garments Recalled
OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers not to wear certain brands of fleece fabric garments which do not meet flammability regulations under the Hazardous Products Act. These fall and winter fashion garments are made and sold in Canada. They contain 100 % cotton or 80 % cotton/20 % polyester fleece fabrics.
Consumers are advised to stop wearing these garments as they may pose a serious fire risk if the fleece surface comes in contact with an ignition source such as candles, sparks from fireplaces, matches, lighters etc. These garments may ignite readily and burn within seconds resulting in serious burn injuries.
At Health Canada's request, Canadian manufacturers and retailers have stopped using the affected fleece fabrics and have initiated recalls of clothing made from these fabrics. Product Safety inspectors from Health Canada are monitoring the recalls.
Health Canada reminds consumers that all types of fabrics including fleece can burn. In order to reduce the risk of clothing fires which sometimes result in serious injury, consumers should avoid close contact with sources of heat or flames especially when wearing loose and flowing or fleece garments.
For more information, consumers should contact one of the following regional Product Safety Offices of Health Canada:
Consumers can also consult their retailers about the possibility of refund or exchange.
Information:
Bonnie Fox-McIntyre/Monique Renaud-Gagné
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588
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