Halogen torchiere floor lamps can reach very high temperatures and become dangerous.

AUGUSTA – Tucked away unnoticed in homes across Maine is a little-known hazard that has caused serious fires across the country.

The hazard is halogen torchiere floor lamps, which have been responsible for more than 530 fires, 36 deaths, and 138 injuries nationwide since 1992, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They can reach temperatures of 1,100 degrees F, hot enough to fry an egg, boil water or ignite a curtain in a matter of seconds.

Gov. John E. Baldacci announced Maine residents can turn in their used halogen torchieres at a participating retailer and receive a $20 instant rebate to apply toward the purchase of an Energy Star qualified torchiere this month.

“This initiative offers an important financial incentive to help Maine residents reduce their fire risk and lighting costs, while decreasing our electricity consumption,” Baldacci said.

Aubuchon Hardware on Main Street and Lisbon Street in Lewiston is participating in this promotion in partnership with Efficiency Maine, as part of EPA’s “Change a Light, Change the World” campaign.

Energy Star qualified torchieres are equipped with compact fluorescent light bulbs that operate at a much lower temperature and are about 70 percent cooler than halogen torchieres.

“Most people don’t realize how hazardous these lamps are,” said Maine State Fire Marshal John Dean “We are working with Gov. Baldacci and Efficiency Maine to promote Energy Star qualified torchiere lamps because they are much safer and use less energy.”

Energy Star qualified torchiere lamps use two-thirds less energy, last up to 10 times longer and are 20 percent brighter.

Efficiency Maine is a statewide effort to promote the more efficient use of electricity, help Maine residents and businesses reduce energy costs, and improve Maine’s environment. Efficiency Maine is funded by electricity consumers and administered by the Maine Public Utilities Commission.