CARAVANNERS and campers have been warned about the dangers of using portable butane cookers after the death of a 33-year-old man in New South Wales.

Nathan Kliendienst suffered 100 percent burns when his caravan erupted in a ball of fire after a butane cylinder exploded at Casino's Glen Villa Resort.

Now NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe has issued a warning about portable butane 'lunchbox' cookers due to safety issues, including overheating.

"We recommend consumers do not buy portable cookers of this type," he said.

Compliance certification for all current models of the gas cookers has been suspended by the independent safety certifiers and it is now illegal to sell them in NSW.

South Australia and WA has also banned some of the cookers while other states and territories are being urged to also outlaw them.

"Up to 31 models of butane gas cookers have been withdrawn from sale as they do not meet Australian Standards," Mr Stowe said.

"Retailers in NSW should no longer be stocking or selling these products.

"Testing, undertaken at the request of NSW Fair Trading and other State gas regulators, has found a fault with the cookers' shut-off valves, posing a risk that the devices may overheat and explode.

"These cookers are lightweight and portable and are popular for use in camping and caravanning. They are inexpensive and commonly sell for between $15 and $30."

Mr Stowe said consumers who had bought cookers should refrain from using them.

"If these products malfunction they can potentially cause serious injuries.

"The cookers should be disposed of in a safe manner, with the butane cylinders disposed of through an appropriate community waste or recycling centre.

"Consumers who have purchased a non-compliant gas cooker and have proof of the purchase should return the product to their retailer and seek a refund of the full purchase price as soon as possible.

"Fair Trading is continuing to work with retailers, manufacturers and other states to ensure products are removed from shelves.

"I'd encourage consumers to notify NSW Fair Trading if they see any devices of this type being sold within stores or by NSW retailers."

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