Consumers need FR education
David Perry -- Furniture Today, June 28, 2004
Hickory, N.C. — Consumer education is critical as the bedding industry begins to incorporate new fire-resistant technology in its products, according to a leading supplier.
Bobby Bush, an executive with Hickory Springs, is concerned that consumers might get a false sense of security with the new products.
"Most consumers don't know their home furnishings will burn," he said. The fact is, Bush added, everything will burn under certain conditions. "Rocks burn," he said. "It is called lava."
No products are completely "fireproof" or "fire resistant," Bush continued. Hickory Springs is marketing products that are "fire retardant," the term Bush prefers.
A new mattress flammability law goes into effect in California next year, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is planning new FR standards for furniture and bedding. That means that "safer" furniture and bedding is on the way, Bush said.
But he noted that consumers need to understand that their home furnishings can still burn.
"Will consumers be more reckless with their new furniture, smoking carelessly, leaving matches and lighters where children can easily find them?" he asked. "Will candles be left unattended?
"To shorten the learning curve and, hopefully, prevent casualties due to consumer misinformation and misunderstanding, 'safer' furniture must be accompanied by consumer education," Bush continued. "User ignorance must be taken into account when producing promotional material for home furnishings. Furniture salespeople and retail salespeople must play a role in educating consumers."
As a leader in addressing FR issues, Hickory Springs will work with producers to meet new standards, Bush said. And the company will also work on educational programs that help get the right message out on new FR products.
