Fake lighters spark safety warning

5.50.31pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 5th Apr 2008

• A FRESH warning has been issued by Richmond Council to be on the alert for counterfeit goods including fake lighters which could explode in your face.

Trading Standards officers have recently found fake condoms, batteries, razor blades, DVDs, lighters, and vodka. And this week the Council issued a warning to shopkeepers that the consequences of selling counterfeits can be very serious, including possible prosecution.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Martin Elengorn, said: "Not only do we seize fake goods when we find them so that they can be destroyed, we will also consider taking legal action against the seller. We urge shopkeepers always to receive proper receipts with goods they buy and be very wary of buying from unknown suppliers who just call in at the shop touting their wares. If someone tries to sell you what you think are fake goods let us know as soon as possible. The fake condoms would certainly not have given the level of protection against pregnancy as the genuine article. Fake batteries do not last and fake lighters can literally explode in your face. And the fake razor blades are also of poor quality and pose serious safety risks."