Deadly tabletop burners set to be banned in Australia

Small tabletop burners responsible for three deaths overseas and more than 100 injures and 36 house fire across Australia since 2010 are set to be banned.

Authorities are warning retailers the sale of Decorative Ethanol Burners could lead to multi-million dollar fines.

South Australia Metropolitan Fire Service spokesman Glenn Banham said the danger of these items was clear.

“We see fires to people’s arms, upper bodies and face if the fuel flashes back as they’re refuelled,” he said.

“Stop using them immediately, they are a risk to their (people’s) life and their property.”

The changes, which follow an interim ban last year, mean retailers can only sell larger burners that have a separate section for refueling and an approved fuel container.

SA Consumer Affairs Commissioner Dini Souli said people who purchased the old burners before they were baned should approach the retailer they bought it from, with many offering a full refund.

The million dollar ban for the sale of the burners starts in October.