News
7/17/2011 - Fuel Gel Dangers Highlighted
Fuel Gel Dangers Highlighted By
NJ Department of Community Affairs Division of Fire Safety
In an effort to prevent “fuel gel” accidents, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Division of Fire Safety publicized current dangers and safety instructions.
According to DCA Commissioner Lori Grifa, there is a potential of serious burn hazards with use of “fuel gel” products and devices.
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The NJ Dept. of Community Affairs Division of Fire Safety warns the public regarding fuel gel.
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“There have been several incidents involving the use of fuel gel products that have resulted in serious and, in a few cases, life-threatening burn injuries,” said Commissioner Grifa. “It is imperative that people who use these types of products read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s directions to avoid serious injuries.”
“Fuel gel” products are distributed and sold in hardware stores and chain stores specifically selling summer seasonal products. The gel is burned in “fire pots” for outdoor decoration use. Insect repellents sometimes contain specific fire gel, citronella.
Because the gel is flammable and alcohol-based, the consistency easily sticks to clothes and skin and can cause potential burns.
Acting Division of Fire Safety Director William Kramer recommends safety tips for product use including exercising extreme caution with the use of fuel gel products and fuel gel product devices; refraining from use of fuel gel products in any device not designed for fuel gel and preventing overfilling the fuel.
Kramer also instructs that consumers of fuel gel products should not add any extra fuel to a lit flame or fire, should use a snuffer to put the flames out safely and should not blow out the fire. Water should not be used to put out the fire.
Children should not handle fuel or or fire and, in the case of an emergency fire on skin or clothes, Kramer said to stop, drop and roll until the fire is safely extinguished. Fuel gel devices should be kept away from children and pets and placed in a safe location to prevent accidental contact.
Fuel gel products and devices should not be left unattended or stored inside the home, Kramer said.
For more information, visit www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dfs.