Coal mouse

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"Caution! Caution! Do not hold in hand when lighting."

A coal mouse is a small cardboard box containing a small amount of magnesium and other chemicals with a fuse extending out. They are used to start fires in coal stoves and furnaces by laying it on the stoves grate, covering it with coal and igniting the fuse. The appearance of the fuse sticking out of the coal is where the coal mouse gets its name: it appears that a small mouse tail is sticking out of the coal.

It is similar to the common road flare, except its purpose is to burn hot more than burn bright. They tend to burn for approximately 10-15 minutes.

They are difficult to find online because they are considered an explosive and therefore are expensive to ship. They are usually available at a local coal dealer.