For Bed and Futon Shoppers, '603' Means Safety

California has adopted Technical Bulletin 603, the nation's first standard requiring that mattresses, mattress/box springs sets and futons provide protection against an open flame causing the product to burn intensely. Lighters, matches and candles are a common source of open flames.

The regulations go into effect Jan. 1, 2005, after which all mattresses, mattress/box springs sets and futons manufactured for sale to Caliofornia consumers must be open-flame resistant.

Look for the Label Stating the Product Meets 'Technival Bulletin 603'

Only products certified by the manufacturer to pass the Technival Bulletin 603 test can lawfully be labeled: "This product meets the requirements of the California Bureau of Home Furnishings Technical Bulletin 603." These are the only products that can be described as "Meeting TB 603" or "meets California's new mattress fire-safety standard," etc.

Consumers can look for a "law label" that features the Technical Blletin 603 compliance statement and specifies the date of manufacture. The statement is required for products manufactured on or after Jan. 1, 2005, for sale in California. (For products built in 2004 that the manufacturer certifies as meeting TB 603, the new law label is optional. Consumers should check with the retailer and manufacturer to identify such products.)

The label also identifies the manufacturer, tells consumers what's inside the product, and shows it meets other important standards, such as protection against smoldering cigarettes starting a fire.

Don't Let Your Guard Down: Fire Can Kill, Even With a Safer Mattress.

Open-flame-resistant beds and futons are designed to resist ignition, giving potential victims time to recognize fire danger and escape. They are not fireproof. Other bedding roducts, such as comforters and pillows contain highly flammable foam. Be sure to maintain good fire safety in your home. Keep fresh batteries in your smoke detectors. Statistics show children playing with fire start many bedroom fires, so supervise children and teach them fire safety.

Check for the License: Stores and Manufacturers Must be Licensed

The Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation licenses mattress retailers, manufacturers and other home furnishings businesses. This helps ensure consumer-protection and health and safety regulations are followed. Stores are required to post their license. Consumers can also check license status online at www.dca.ca.gov or by calling toll-free 1-800-952-5210. Additional home furnishings fire safety information is availale at the site.

For more information, contact: Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation 3485 Orange Grove Ave., North Highlands, CA 95660-5595 www.bhfti.ca.gov (916) 574-2041