• Abuse of lighter refills accounts for more than one death a week among 14-18 year olds in the UK
• The youngest death, in 1998, was that of a 9 year old boy
• Over half of these deaths are caused by butane cigarette lighter refills, which are so strong they can be lethal the first time children abuse them

Legislation

• Cigarette Lighter Refill (Safety) Regulations 1999

Age Restriction

A person must be 18 years or older to buy lighter refills containing butane.

Offences

The above legislation makes it illegal:

• To supply a cigarette lighter refill canister containing butane, or a substance with butane as a constituent part, to any person under the age of 18

Maximum Penalties

• £5,000 Fine
• Up to 6 months imprisonment

Useful Links
[Note: These links will open in a new window]


Re-Solv (Gas Fuels)


Tackling Drugs - Volatile Substances Factsheet

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