NFPA, CPSC Asks Public to Stop Using Pourable Gel Fuels Due to Fire Risk

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have issued a joint statement asking the public to stop using pourable gel fuels due to fire risk. As of October 8, 2011, there is a mass recall of these products with new companies joining the recall on a continual basis. To date, the following companies have recalled pourable gel fuels due to sudden flash fires and burns that have resulted in two deaths, and 34 cases of injuries that have resulted in second and third degree burns:

• Smart Solar of Oldsmar, Florida
• Real Flame of Racine, Wisconsin
• Pacific Décor Limited of Woodinwille, Washington
• Luminosities Inc. (Windflame) of St. Paul, Minnesota
• Lamplight Farms Inc., of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
• Fuel Barons Inc., of Lake Tahoe, Nevada
• Sunjel Company (2 Burn Inc.) of Milwaukee
• Bond Manufacturing of Antioch, California
• Bird Brain Inc., of Ypsilanti, Michigan

The National Fire Protection Association and CPSC issued joint statements on September 1, 2011 warning the public to stop using the pourable gel fuels immediately. As of October 8, 2011, more than 10 million bottles of pourable gel fuels have been recalled nationwide due to the risk.

One of the most dangerous warnings issued by the NFPA regarding pourable gel fuels is that the safety procedure of "Stop, Drop and Roll" may prove to be ineffective at putting out fires that involve spilled gel fuel. Those that are experiencing a sudden flash fire due to these gels are advised to use dry chemical fire extinguishers or baking soda in order to put the fire out. According to the U.S. CPSC, the pourable gel fuel can stick to skin and clothing and is difficult to remove.

Those who are using pourable gel fuels are advised to stop using the products immediately and to contact the distributor for information regarding a refund.

Source

NFPA

CPSC