MEMBERS of the public are being warned about fire agents who install faulty fire extinguishers and rob people of their money under the pretence of getting them new extinguishers.
This was confirmed by the National Fire Authority yesterday, which expressed concern at these unscrupulous individuals.
"Some complaints were received from customers of unfair and unethical trade practices by some fire agents selling, installing and servicing fire extinguishers," a statement read.
Authority chief executive officer John O'Connor said the agents were selling defective fire extinguishers.
"Complaints and reports highlighted that some fire agents had installed defective fire extinguishers in the customer's property which did not work. The complaints highlighted that such defective extinguishers were sold to customers at very high prices.
"This is a serious issue and our advice to those fire agents engaged in such unfair trade practices is to refrain from doing this."
People are being advised to contact their nearby fire station if they intend to purchase fire extinguishers for their homes.
The NFA said firefighters would also be available to show community members how to use a fire extinguisher.