Canada Says to Stop Selling Some Firepots

Health Canada October 9 warned against sales of certain firepots and pourable alcohol fuel containers. It also advised consumers against use of products that lack flame arrestors and to opt for non-refillable fuel canisters.

It said it issued a Notice to Stakeholders advising against such items. It pointed to ASTM F3363-19, which addresses the concerns as well as an ASTM work item (WK60590) targeting flame mitigation devices.

The worry is flame jetting, and the agency gave tips for avoiding this hazard: never pouring fuel over flames, using snuffers to put out flames, making sure pots are cool before refueling, using pots on stable/level surfaces, and keeping fuel containers tightly capped and away from flames.

The products are referred to other names, including portable fireplaces. Health Canada noted interaction with CPSC in on standards work. A recent draft CPSC operating plan for FY2020 (PSL, 9/30/19) said that work will end.