First Response-Boston Perfume Offends

A New York perfume manufacturer has come under scrutiny for selling a new firefighter-inspired perfume, First Response-Boston, by those who believe the scent capitalizes on April's tragic bombing at the Boston Marathon, reports ABC News.

Demeter Fragrance Library launched the new perfume, which incorporates the smell of smoke and rubber, on May 18, a month after the Boston Marathon bombing, which killed three and injured 264 people.

Demeter Fragrance Library, which describes itself as a fragrance company with 250 smells that are “inspired by everyday objects and experiences,” is now selling a scent that could certainly be described as “Boston Strong.”

"We have an unusual approach to fragrances; we're constantly looking for things that resonate. We originally wanted to create a perfume for the New York City fire department, but after the events in Boston we decided to tailor the perfume for the Boston firefighters," says Demeter CEO Mark D. Crames, who has lived in the Boston area.

Nevertheless, some Bostonians are not pleased.

"It's pretty soon after the incident to sell a perfume like that," says Boston resident Lauren Passaro, 21. "I think it's pretty insensitive."

Hayley Gundlach of Norwood, Mass., was working at Sugar Heaven, a Boston candy store located at the marathon's finish line, when she heard the blast outside the storefront. "It was pretty stressful. I was and still am pretty shaken up. For a time I was afraid to go outside by myself. Unexpected loud noises made me jump."

"To me, it's a little offensive to try to put the tragedy in a bottle. The first responders weren't just firefighters but also police officers and runners."

As Gundlach suggests, the perfume could have adverse effects on those who witnessed the tragedy. "That smoke smell is so particular to that day that it can be a trigger for a lot of people emotionally; it strikes me as odd that they would include it."

Crames denies trying to turn a profit with the perfume.

On other news, reviews are already in on the fragrance, which users have said is “not for the faint of heart,” and is very “masculine” in nature, but also gives off, “a long lasting fragrance” that they would recommend to their friends.