Novelty lighters in the hands of children are a deadly and emerging threat to life and property nationwide. Children are attracted to these lighters because they look like toys, complete with visual effects, flashing lights, and musical sounds.
Mistaking lighters for toys has proven to be dangerous as novelty lighters are responsible for injuries, deaths and accidents across the Nation. State and local governments are taking action by banning the sale of novelty lighters and limiting their distribution.
It is critical to focus public attention on the dangers of these toylike devices. For this reason, the theme for National Arson Awareness Week (May 4-10, 2008) is Toylike Lighters – Playing with Fire.
For more information on novelty and toylike lighters, please visit the U.S. Fire Administration's Web site at www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/focus/.
