Recall: L.A. Lighter Recalls Disposable Cigarette Lighters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 2, 2002 Release # 02-195

Lighter Recall Hotline: (800) 499-4708 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076

CPSC, L.A. Lighter Inc. Announce Recall of Disposable Cigarette Lighters

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), L.A. Lighter Inc., of Azusa, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 1,800 disposable cigarette lighters. The lighters may have child-resistant mechanisms that do not meet federal safety standards. Young children may be able to operate these lighters, which could pose a fire hazard.

L.A. Lighter has not received any reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled lighters are made of metal, come in different colors, and have a top that resembles a pencil across a protractor and triangle. To open the port and ignite the flame, consumers press on the pencil. The lighters, which are about three inches high, 7/8 inches wide and 1/4 inch deep, have a ruler along the side. A label on the lighter has the UPC code 7 63052 20108 5 and the words, "MADE IN CHINA" and "SLIDE PUSH."

Retailers and distributors nationwide sold these lighters between December 2000 and May 2001 for about $5.

Consumers should stop using these lighters immediately and contact L.A. Lighter at (800) 499-4708 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday to receive a full refund.