New Jersey poison experts warn of torch fuel dangers ahead of Fourth of July celebrations

NEW JERSEY — As families prepare for Fourth of July cookouts and summer gatherings, experts at the New Jersey Poison Control Center are warning about the dangers of outdoor torch fuel, which can be mistaken for beverages and cause life-threatening injuries if swallowed.

The New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School said it receives calls each summer involving children who ingest torch fuel. Officials said the risk increases during holiday weekends, when larger gatherings and distractions are more common.

Torch fuels are often clear or lightly tinted, and some are scented, making them easy to mistake for water, juice or sports drinks if they are poured into cups or left unattended. Pets also can be harmed by licking spills or drinking from accessible containers.

Poison control officials said even a small amount can be dangerous because the liquid can enter the lungs and cause chemical pneumonia and serious breathing problems.

“Swallowing torch fuel is a medical emergency,” said Diane Calello, executive and medical director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center. “During the summer, we see more opportunities for these exposures as families spend more time outdoors. These liquids can look harmless, but just a tiny amount can enter the lungs and cause serious breathing problems very quickly. A child may seem fine at first, but symptoms can appear suddenly and become severe.”

“Holiday weekends like the Fourth of July often mean more activity, more distractions, and more products like torch fuel in use,” said Bruce Ruck, managing director of the poison control center. “It only takes a small amount to cause big harm. Taking a few simple precautions can prevent a life-threatening situation and help keep celebrations safe for both people and pets.”

The poison control center recommends keeping torch fuel in its original container, never pouring it into cups or drink bottles, refilling torches away from guests, cleaning up spills immediately and storing fuel and torches out of the reach of children and pets.

Officials also warned against inducing vomiting if someone swallows torch fuel, saying doing so can increase the risk of the liquid entering the lungs.

Anyone with questions about a possible poisoning, medication reaction or chemical exposure can contact the New Jersey Poison Control Center 24 hours a day by calling 1-800-222-1222 or chatting online. Anyone experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as difficulty breathing, seizures or trouble waking up, should call 911 immediately.