Denbighshire County Council’s Trading Standards team is warning consumers to look out for counterfeit auto-spray air freshener refills that may be dangerous.
Trading Standards officers have found counterfeit Air Wick Freshmatic air freshener refills being sold on Prestatyn Market.
Tests commissioned by the manufacturer of genuine Air Wick refills have shown that some cans may contain excessive amounts of methanol.
Genuine Air Wick auto spray refills contain 5% methanol and are entirely safe for use. Some counterfeit items sold elsewhere in the UK have been found to contain much higher levels. Methanol at high levels can be dangerous and inhalation may cause headaches, nausea, and even loss of consciousness.
The counterfeit containers are easily identifiable. Unlike genuine Air Wick refills the label does not go all the way around the can leaving a silver strip running all the way down one side of the can.
Anyone who suspects they have purchased a counterfeit refill is warned to stop using it immediately and should contact their local Trading Standards Service with details of where they purchased the item. It is particularly important that these canisters are not stored near a heat source.
Denbighshire residents should be on their guard when buying Air Wick refills ensuring they buy from reputable retailers who obtain their products either direct from the manufacturer or through recognised wholesale outlets.
