CPSC Recall in 2002: CPSC, Specialty Sales Co. Inc. Announce Recall of Novelty Cigarette Lighters

Updated on January 18, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 2002.

Data Source: CPSC.
Recall Number: 02-177
Date: June 11, 2002
Product Name: Novelty cigarette lighters
Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Specialty Sales Co. Inc., of Castro Valley, Calif., is recalling about 6,000 novelty cigarette lighters. These lighters do not have child-resistant mechanisms, as required by federal law. Young children could ignite the lighters, posing fire and burn hazards.CPSC and Specialty Sales Co. Inc. have not received any reports of injuries or incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.This recall involves two types of lighters. The first type is a refillable, liquid-fueled lighter with various decals depicting one of the following: a frog with a banjo sitting on a lily, a man in the moon, Tweety Bird, a unicorn, and a skull and crossbones. "Made in China" is written on a label on these lighters. The second type of lighter is a refillable, gas-fueled, piezo-electric lighter with a dolphin molded on the side. The dolphin's head serves as a hinged cover for the ignition button and flame port. There is no writing on these lighters.Convenience and liquor stores and gas station food markets in northern California sold these lighters from March 1999 through April 2002 for about $4.Consumers should stop using these lighters immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, call Specialty Sales Co. Inc. collect at (510) 581-3869 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.

Hazard Description:

These lighters do not have child-resistant mechanisms, as required by federal law. Young children could ignite the lighters, posing fire and burn hazards.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Refund

Units: About 6,000
Incidents:

CPSC and Specialty Sales Co. Inc. have not received any reports of injuries or incidents.

Sold At:

Convenience and liquor stores and gas station food markets in northern California sold these lighters from March 1999 through April 2002 for about $4.

Manufactured In:

China