Kidsafe Victoria has backed an interim ban
by Consumer Affairs Victoria on novelty lighters, saying
it should be immediately introduced nationally in all
states to prevent serious injury.
Dr Mark Stokes, President of Kidsafe Victoria said
the appearance of the lighters once again showed we
should be tightening up on importers of inappropriate
products.
"We strongly support the Victorian Government
placement of an interim ban order on the supply of
novelty lighters on Tuesday, 1 September 2009, as they
pose a potential risk of serious injury. Novelty
lighters are particularly attractive to children and can
be easily mistaken for a toy."
"The ban prohibits
the supply of novelty lighters, which are cigarette
lighters designed with a toy-like appearance that could
be appealing, attractive, or intended for use by young
children.
"Novelty lighters come in a variety of forms
including animals, cartoon characters, cars and mobile
phones.
"These products are readily available from service
stations and the internet.
"We are urging
parents to ensure they do not make these novelty
lighters available to children of any age, as they can
become a deadly item in starting house
fires," Dr Stokes said.
Media
Enquiries:
Dr Mark Stokes President Kidsafe VIC
Mobile: 0408 038 267
Melanie Water State Manager
Kidsafe Mobile: 0421 730 252
Ron Smith
Corporate Media Communications Kidsafe Mobile: 0417 329
201