The Mandatory Standard Adds An Important Layer Of Fire Protection To Consumers' Homes A new federal flammability standard for mattresses goes into effect on July 1, 2007. The mandatory standard adds an important layer of fire protection to consumers' homes. The new standard helps reduce the severity of mattress fires ignited by open flame sources such as candles, matches and lighters. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates the new standard will prevent as many as 270 deaths and 1,330 injuries every year. New mattresses or mattress sets are required to have a label stating that they meet the federal flammability requirement. For more information, contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission hotline at (800) 638-2772 or visit our web site at www.cpsc.gov.