The Minister for Better Regulation has issued a public warning for people to be alert of the dangers of using unauthorised indoor portable gas heaters at home.
The Minister, Kevin Anderson said the devices, which used an LPG gas bottle, had been banned in NSW because they were a major fire hazard and failed to meet Australian safety standards.
“These products are extremely dangerous and we have a number of examples of them malfunctioning and bursting into flames,” Mr Anderson said.
“With the weather getting cooler, please don’t be tempted to buy a cabinet heater, and always check for safety certification prior to purchasing any heating device,” he said.
“Cabinet heaters fail the basic safety checks required to keep you and your family safe and should never be used at home.”
Mr Anderson said cabinet heaters had been banned in Australia for over a decade, however they were still being imported and sold to Australians via popular auction websites.
“There is a real and serious risk that lives could be lost if consumers continue to buy and use them,” he said.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said it was more important than ever to prepare homes for winter, as families were spending more time at home due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“Firefighters spent a tumultuous summer protecting NSW residents from the fires raging outside the home, but now is the time for residents to take care, listen to the experts and ensure your families are protected from avoidable dangers inside the home,” Mr Elliott said.
He said fatalities from residential house fires increased in winter and reminded people to be careful when using heaters, fireplaces and electric blankets.
