The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today proposed a ban of artificial fireplace embers and ashes containing inhalable asbestos because of a possible cancer hazard. These materials are used in gas- burning and artificial fireplace systems to create a glowing fire effect. The fake embers and ashes can be harmful if inhaled and the Commission has step-by-step recommendations for consumers to remove the ash safely. These include covering the nose and mouth, wetting down the ash with a light spray of water and soap, using a disposable scoop to put the ashes in a double plastic trash bag and calling the local sanitation department for instructions on disposal. Complete instructions are available by writing to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C. 20207, or by calling toll-free 800/638-2772.
About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. Since the CPSC was established more than 50 years ago, it has worked to ensure the safety of consumer products, which has contributed to a decline in injuries associated with these products.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
For lifesaving information:
- Visit CPSC.gov.
- Sign up to receive our email alerts.
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn and Truth Social.
- Report a dangerous product or a product-related injury on www.SaferProducts.gov.
- Call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 800-638-8270).
- Contact a media specialist.
Please use the below phone number for all media requests.
Phone: (301) 504-7908
Spanish: (301) 504-7800