Unsafe Flaming Gel Recalled

10 February 2006

Unsafe Flaming Gel Recalled

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs is working with the supplier and retailers of a product called 'Nu-reZ Flaming Gel' to undertake an immediate voluntary recall.

The Ministry strongly recommends that consumers stop using this product immediately.

A serious accident has occurred where this product exploded causing serious burns to a person.

"This gel is used to create a flame in garden art, such as stone or ceramic bowls. It is sold at various gardening and hardware outlets throughout New Zealand," said Tony Lee, Manager, Measurement and Product Safety Service, Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

"The supplier and retailers have acted responsibly and removed the 'Nu-reZ Flaming Gel' from sale at the request of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. The voluntary product recall notices will appear in the national newspapers tomorrow."

The 'Nu-reZ Flaming Gel' contains high levels isopropyl alcohol, water and thickening agents, and is sold with garden art, stone or ceramic bowls (fire pots). It has been marketed by some outlets as a citronella product, although it is predominantly used for creating a flame in garden art.

"The gel can become dangerous when not used strictly in accordance with the directions on the packaging. The gel should not be handled unless it's completely cold. The container which it is to be poured into must also be cold, otherwise the gel can become extremely unstable and could explode," said Tony Lee.

If consumers have purchased this product we recommend they phone the product recall number 0800 786 635.

The Ministry has examined the product and has concluded that this product is unsafe because:

* instructions and warning labels are small and hard to read * the liquid gel is potentially very dangerous if the instructions on the gel container are not followed correctly.

"If consumers find the 'Nu-reZ Flaming Gel', they should report this immediately to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, freephone 0508 627 774 (0508 MAPSS Info)" said Tony Lee.

ENDS

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