Firefighters say ban novelty lighters

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Firefighters are urging New York state to ban novelty lighters that look like toys.

The Firemen's Association of the State of New York and other firefighters' groups say there have been too many cases of deaths, injuries and fires nationwide due to novelty lighter use among children.

Kids can be attracted to novelty lighters because they look like toys such as animals, cars or cartoon characters. They're sold in many convenience stores, gas stations and hardware stores

Fireman's association president Jim Burns says his group is strongly urging lawmakers to ban novelty lighters to keep our kids and families safe.