‘Exploding’ musical birthday candle recalled due to safety risk

A POTENTIALLY deadly musical birthday candle is among a swag of products seized from a supplier due to safety concerns.

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A POTENTIALLY deadly “exploding” musical birthday ­candleholder is among products seized for safety reasons.

Authorities warn that the flower-shaped “Happy Birthday to you” candleholder, which was on sale in Victoria and online, could cause burns, serious injury or death, should it catch fire.

Consumer Affairs Victoria said a routine inspection discovered the dangerous product at Wens Bros Trading Pty Ltd’s specialty discount Clearance Centre store in Hallam, and at its Clayton warehouse.

Authorities warn this candle holder can catch fire. Picture: Supplied.

A doll recalled due to button battery risks. Picture: Supplied.

Tests revealed wicks on plastic petals burned through the casing, causing the device to catch alight. There was sometimes a “small explosion”, or the battery caught fire. CAV is still determining where, and how widely, it was sold.

Candleholders that flame for five seconds or more after ignition are banned. Compliant models have a barrier under the wick to stop flames spreading.

The 109 seized candleholders were among goods confiscated from Wens Bros Trading. The business, which remains under investigation, declined to comment.

Sunglasses require a lens category label. Picture: Supplied

An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recall notice mentioned 21 items, including several dolls and a train set that had button batteries; face paints, temporary tattoos and a nail polish ­remover without ingredient ­labels; and flotation rings, a portable swimming pool and sunglasses without mandatory warning labels.

Individuals can be fined up to $220,000 and businesses up to $1.1 million, for product safety breaches. Complaints can be made to Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 or via www.productsafety.gov.au.

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