The Minister for Competition Policy & Consumer Affairs, Chris Bowen MP, today announced a ban on ‘fire footbags’ and similar products that have the potential to burn consumers and also pose a serious risk of starting bush fires.
The products are commonly referred to as ‘fire footbags’. They are roughly in the shape of a ball and manufactured from fire resistant material. The products are designed to be soaked in flammable liquid and ignited.
The ban, which takes effect immediately, makes it an offence under the Trade Practices Act to supply ‘fire footbags’ to the general public. More information on the ban is available in the Attorney-General's Department Special Gazette No. S120 at www.ag.gov.au.
“Today, on the advice of the consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, I have moved to remove a product from sale to the general public that presents both a risk of serious burns to the user and a risk of igniting nearby flammable materials.
“The need for this ban comes from a case in Western Australia where a mother reported that her 16 year old son had been able to purchase a ‘fire footbag’ from a retail outlet in WA and then burnt his hands while attempting to use the product.
“Prior to this ban, it was possible for members of the general public to purchase ‘fire footbags’ – a product that when used as intended, becomes a flaming missile.
“This is not the kind of product parents would want in their children’s hands.
“Following the initial detection and assessment in WA, the Commonwealth has made its own assessment and moved swiftly to have this dangerous product removed from public sale.
“The ban takes effect immediately and will be enforced by the consumer watchdog, the ACCC.
“The ban makes provision for supply to bona fide entertainers when they have appropriate supporting evidence.”
The hazards associated with the supply of this product were first identified by the Western Australian Department of Consumer and Employment Protection.
CANBERRA
16 June 2008