Kerosene sold at Ringgold store could be dangerous

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Kerosene sold at a market in Ringgold, Ga., should not be used because it could explode, according to a warning from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black.

The warning targets consumers who bought kerosene on or after Nov. 7 from the MAPCO Mart at 616 West Nashville St. in Ringgold should not put the fuel in their kerosene heaters or lamps. The warning also includes kerosene bought at the Circle K #6701 at 3010 Buena Vista Road in Columbus, Ga., according to Black.

The kerosene is possibly contaminated with gasoline and has the potential to cause an explosion or fire if used in home heaters or lamps.

To date, no other stores are involved, official said.

State Department of Agriculture Fuel & Measures Division inspectors discovered the contaminants during a routine inspection at the stores.

The pumps have been closed and posted with "stop sale" notices until tanks and lines have been cleaned and replacement kerosene has been tested and approved by the state.

Consumers who purchased kerosene at either store on Nov. 7 or afterward should return the fuel to the store for a refund, officials said.