This section will alert you to products that are being recalled because of fire and major safety issues. This stuff comes from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) where you can find a lot of product safety information and even more recalled products.
Briggs & Stratton Snow Thrower Engines Recalled Due to Fire Hazard - 07/2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Briggs & Stratton OHV Snow Thrower Engines
Units: About 480,000
Manufacturer: Briggs & Stratton Corp., of Wauwatosa, Wis.
Hazard: When the engines are primed, excess fuel can overflow into the carburetor and ignite, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Briggs & Stratton has received 48 reports of fire. There have been no reports of injury. The firm has received one report of minor property damage.
Description: The recall includes snow equipment with Briggs & Stratton OHV engines that have model numbers beginning with 12, 15, 20, or 21, and a date of manufacture (DOM) code between 000601xx and 070301xx. The engines were installed on the following brand snow throwers: Ariens, Canadiana, Craftsman, Frontier Equipment, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, Simplicity and Snapper. The engine model number and DOM information are located on the cylinder shield or rocker cover. Call for more information about determining if your snow thrower engine is included in the recall.
Sold at: Various snow thrower dealers nationwide from June 2000 through February 2007 for between $630 and $2,350 for the snow thrower.
Manufactured In: United States
Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the snow throwers. Call or contact the firms listed below to arrange for the free repair.
Consumer Contact:For more information, consumers can contact Briggs & Stratton toll-free at (866) 478-7855 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the company's Website at www.briggsandstratton.com - Dealers can be found by using the Dealer Locator at the Briggs & Stratton's Web site. Consumers with Craftsman brand snow throwers should call Sears toll-free at (877) 659-7017 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday.
General Electric Recalls Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard - 05/2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: GE Dishwashers
Units: About 2.5 million
Manufacturer: GE Consumer & Industrial, of Louisville, Ky.
Hazard: Liquid rinse-aid can leak from its dispenser onto the dishwasher’s internal wiring which can cause an electrical short and overheating, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: GE has received 191 reports of overheated wiring including 56 reports of property damage. There were 12 reports of fires that escaped the dishwasher. Fire damage was limited to the dishwasher or the adjacent area. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recall includes GE built-in dishwashers sold under the following brand names: Eterna, GE, GE Profile™, GE Monogram®, Hotpoint®, and Sears-Kenmore. The dishwashers were sold in white, black, almond, bisque and stainless steel. The brand name is printed on the dishwasher’s front control panel. The following model and serial numbers can be found inside the dishwasher tub on the front left side of the dishwasher.
| Brand | Model Numbers Must Begin With | Serial Numbers Must Begin With |
|---|---|---|
| Eterna | EDW20, EDW30 | SS, TS, VS, ZS, AT, DT, FT, GT, HT, LT, MT, RT, ST, TT, VT, ZT, AV, DV, FV, GV, HV, LV, MV, RV, SV, TV, VV, ZV, AZ, DZ, FZ, GZ, HZ, LZ, MZ, RZ, SZ, TZ, VZ, ZZ, AA, DA, FA, GA, HA, LA, MA, RA, SA, TA, VA, ZA |
| GE and GE Profile | GHD50, GSD40, GSD41, GSD43, GSD46, GSD4910Z, GSD4920Z, GSD4930Z, GSD4940Z0, GSD50, GSD51, GSD521, GSD522, GSD523, GSD531, GSD532, GSD533, GSD535, GSD536, GSD55, GSD56, GSD57, GSD58, GSD59, GSDL3, GSDL6 | |
| GE Monogram | ZBD3500Z0 | |
| Hotpoint | HDA3400F, HDA35 | SS, TS, VS, ZS, AT, DT, FT, GT, HT, LT, MT, RT, ST, TT, VT, ZT, AV, DV, FV, GV, HV, LV, MV, RV, SV, TV, VV, ZV, AZ, DZ, FZ, GZ, HZ, LZ, MZ, RZ, SZ, TZ, VZ, ZZ |
| GE and GE Profile | GHD35, GSD21, GSD2200D, GSD2200F, GSD2200G, GSD2201F, GSD2220F, GSD2221F, GSD2230F, GSD2231F, GSD2250F GSD23, GSD26, GSD27, GSD3115F, GSD3125F, GSD3135F, GSD3200G, GSD3210F, GSD3220F, GSD3230F, GSD33, GSD341, GSD342, GSD343, GSD345, GSD3610F, GSD3620F, GSD3630F, GSD3650F GSD37, GSD381, GSD382, GSD383, GSD385, GSD391, GSD392, GSD393, GSD4525F, GSD4535F, GSD4555F, GSDL122F, GSDL132F, GSDL24, GSM2100F, GSM2100G, GSM2100Z0, GSM2110D, GSM2110F, GSM2130D, GSM2130F | |
| Sears-Kenmore | 363.1438, 363.1447, 363.1445, 363.1448, 363.1457, 363.1467, 363.1475, 363.15161792, 363.1517, 363.1521, 363.1527, 363.1528, 363.1531, 363.1532, 363.1546, 363.1547, 363.1548, 363.1556, 363.1565, 363.1567, 363.1617, 363.1655 | SS, TS, VS, ZS, AT, DT, FT, GT, HT, LT, MT, RT, ST, TT, VT, ZT, AV, DV, FV, GV, HV, LV, MV, RV, SV, TV, VV, ZV, AZ, DZ, FZ, GZ, HZ, LZ, MZ, RZ, SZ, TZ, VZ, ZZ |
Sold at: Department and appliance stores from September 1997 through December 2001 for about $400.
Manufactured In: United States
Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled dishwashers and contact General Electric for a free repair, a $150 rebate towards the purchase of a new GE dishwasher, or a $300 rebate towards the purchase of a new GE Profile or GE Monogram dishwasher.
Consumer Contact:For additional information, contact General Electric toll-free at (877) 607-6395 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday. Consumers also can visit the firm’s Web site at www.geappliances.com.
Maytag® and Samsung™ Brand Front Loading Washing Machines Recalled Due to Fire Hazard - 03/2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Maytag and Samsung Brand Front Loading Washing Machines
Units: About 250,000 Maytag-brand units and about 20,000 Samsung-brand units
Manufacturer: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., of South Korea
Hazard: Water leakage onto the electrical connections to the washing machine’s thermal sensor could cause an electrical short and ignite a circuit board, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Maytag has received five reports of incidents involving ignition in the circuit board. Samsung has received one report of an incident involving ignition in the circuit board. No injuries, fires or property damage outside the washing machine have been reported.
Description: The recall involves certain Maytag and Samsung brand front-load washers. The Maytag washers have model numbers beginning with MAH9700 or MAH8700. The Samsung model number WF306BHW or a model number beginning with WF316. Not all serial numbers are subject to the recall. The model and serial numbers are located on a tag at the bottom of the door opening. Maytag models with a serial number ending in the last two letters identified below are subject to the recall:
| 2005 | GA | GC | GE | GG | GJ | GL | GN | GP | GR | GT | GV | GX |
| 2006 | JA | JC | JE | JG | JJ | JL | JN |
Sample Maytag Serial Number: 10123456GN
Samsung models with the six-digit number 100001 through 799999 prior to a letter at the end of the serial number are subject to the recall:
Sample Samsung Serial Number: 230854AL300026B
Sold at: Major department and appliance stores nationwide from April 2005 through August 2006 for between $1,000 and $1,200.
Manufactured In: South Korea
Remedy:Consumers should immediately contact the firm for information on how to receive a free repair. Consumers should not return the washing machine to the retailer where it was purchased.
Consumer Contact:For more information, consumers can call Maytag toll-free at (800) 868-5109 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or go to Maytag’s Web site at www.washerrecall.com - Samsung customers can call (800) 515-7902 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or go to Samsung’s Web site at www.Samsung.com/washerrecall.
Maytag Recalls Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard - 02/2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Maytag® and Jenn-Air® brand dishwashers
Units: About 2.3 million
Manufacturer: Maytag Corp., of Newton, Iowa
Hazard: Liquid rinse-aid can leak from its dispenser and come into contact with the dishwasher’s internal wiring which can short-circuit and ignite, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Maytag has received 135 reports of dishwasher fires, resulting in product and/or property damage. Four injuries have been reported, including three reports of smoke inhalation and one serious hand laceration when operating a fire extinguisher to put out a fire in the dishwasher.
Description: The recall involves Maytag® and Jenn-Air® under counter or portable plastic tub dishwashers. The dishwashers have black, white, almond, bisque and stainless steel front panels. The following model and serial numbers are printed on a label located on the dishwasher’s plastic frame on top of or to the left of the door opening. Consumers should contact Maytag to determine if their dishwasher is included in this recall.
| Brand | Model numbers MUST begin with… | AND serial numbers MUST end with… |
|---|---|---|
| Maytag® | MDB3, MDB4, MDB5, MDB6, MDB7, MDB8, MDB9, MDBD, MDC3, MDC4, MDC5, DWU9 | SM, SQ, SS, SU, SW, SY, SZ, UB, UD, UF, UH, UK, UM, UQ, US, UU, UW, UY, UZ, WB, WD, WF, WH, WK, WM, WQ, WS, WU, WW, WY, WZ, YB, YD, YF, YH, YK, YM, YQ, YS, YU, YW, YY, YZ |
| Jenn-Air® | JDB3, JDB4, JDB5, JDB6, JDB7 | UB, UD, UF, UH, UK, UM, UQ, US, UU, UW, UY, UZ, WB, WD, WF, WH, WK, WM, WQ, WS, WU, WW, WY, WZ, YB, YD, YF, YH, YK, YM, YQ, YS, YU, YW, YY, YZ |
Sold at: Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from July 1997 through June 2001 for between $370 and $800.
Manufactured In: United States
Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using these dishwashers, disconnect the electric supply by shutting off the fuse or circuit breaker controlling it and inform all users of the dishwasher about the risk of fire. Contact Maytag for either a free in-home repair, or a $75 cash back reimbursement following the purchase of a new Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Whirlpool® or KitchenAid® dishwasher. Consumers should not return the dishwasher to the retailer where it was purchased, as retailers are not prepared to take units back.
Consumer Contact:For more information, contact Maytag Corporation at (800) 675-0535 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.repair.maytag.com.
Black & Decker Recalls Blower/Vacuums for Fire Hazard - 10/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Black & Decker BV4000 Type 1 Blower/Vacs
Units: About 272,000
Manufacturer: Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md.
Hazard: A loose connection between the blower/vac and an extension cord can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Black & Decker has received 187 reports of smoking, melting and/or fire near the blower/vac’s plug, including one report of a fire extending beyond the unit. Black & Decker has received seven reports of minor burns, none of which required medical treatment.
Description: This recall involves Black & Decker model BV4000 Type 1 blower/vacs. The model and type number are printed on a name plate on the right side of the unit. The blower/vacs have an orange housing and a black blower assembly.
Sold at: Home center, hardware and discount stores nationwide from April 2004 through July 2005 for about $70.
Manufactured In: Mexico
Remedy:Consumers should stop using the blower/vacs immediately and contact Black & Decker for a free repair kit.
Consumer Contact:For additional information, consumers can contact Black & Decker at (866) 853-2138 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.blackanddecker.com.
Starbucks Announces Recall of 8-Cup Coffee Brewers Due to Possible Fire Hazard - 10/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Starbucks Barista Aroma™ Stainless Steel 8-Cup Coffee Brewers
Units: About 73,000
Manufacturer: Starbucks Coffee Company, of Seattle, Wash.
Hazard: The coffee brewer has defective electrical wiring that can result in overheating, smoking, burning and melting, posing a possible fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Starbucks has received 23 reports of melting in the plastic housing of the brewers. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall includes the Starbucks Barista Aroma 8-Cup Coffee Brewer only. “Starbucks Barista Aroma” is embossed on the front of the brewer and the brewer has silver control panel buttons and a chrome finish. The Starbucks Barista Grande 12-Cup Coffee Brewer and Starbucks Barista Solo Coffee Brewers are not included in this recall.
Sold at: Starbucks company-owned and operated stores nationwide between March 2005 and September 2006 for about $100.
Manufactured In: China
Remedy:Consumers should stop using the recalled coffee brewers immediately and contact Starbucks for a full refund. Consumers will receive a postage-paid package along with instructions on how to return their brewer. Starbucks is also offering a coupon (valid through 1/31/07) for a free pound of coffee as an incentive to return the recalled machine.
Consumer Contact:For more information, consumers should contact Starbucks’ Barista Aroma recall hotline at (800) 453-1047 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT (11 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET), or visit the company’s Web site at www.starbucks.com - consumers may also write to Starbucks Coffee Company at Customer Relations, Starbucks Coffee Company, mailstop S-RC1, P.O. Box 3717, Seattle, WA 98124-3717.
Nexgrill Industries Gas Grills Recalled Due to Fire Hazard - 06/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Nexgrill Gas Grills
Units: About 16,000
Manufacturer: Nexgrill Industries Inc., of City of Industry, Calif.
Hazard: The gas grill has a hose that connects the propane tank to the burner manifold. If this hose runs up too close to the firebox, the heat can cause the hose to detach from the burner manifold, causing a gas leak and a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Nexgrill has received 31 incident reports, including 28 fires, three hoses melting, two cases of property damage, and four injuries.
Description: The recalled product is the Nexgrill Model 720-0025 Gas Grill. The stainless steel grill is designed to be used with propane gas. The name of the grill is located at the left corner of the exterior of the main burner lid. The serial number is printed on the CSA sticker which is located behind the door. A temperature gauge is located at the center of the main burner lid.
Sold at: Target, Costco Canada, H-E-B, Chase-Pitkin, and Gander Mountain stores nationwide from December 2003 through March 2005 for between $499 to $599.
Manufactured In: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the gas grill immediately and contact Nexgrill to receive a free, self-installation retrofit heat shield assembly.
Consumer Contact: Call Nexgrill toll-free at (888) 361-0888 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or log on to the company’s Web site at http://nexgrill0025.serorder.com
Applica Consumer Products Inc. Recalls Black & Decker® Brand Coffeemaker for Fire Hazard - 06/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Black & Decker® Brand Thermal Coffeemaker
Units: About 420,000
Distributor: Applica Consumer Products Inc., of Miramar, Fla.
Hazard: The coffeemaker may not turn off as programmed, causing the unit to overheat and melt, and posing a risk of fire and burn injury.
Incidents/Injuries: Applica has received 14 reports of the coffeemakers overheating. This resulted in one report of a minor burn, and 12 reports of minor property damage to kitchen cabinets, countertops and floors.
Description and Models: The recalled coffeemakers make up to 8-cups of coffee and have a programmable countertop feature. The coffeemakers are silver and black with a stainless steel carafe. Model numbers TCM800 and TCM805 are printed on the rating plate on the bottom of the coffeemaker.
Sold at: Home improvement and discount department retailers nationwide from March 2004 through April 2006, for about $40.
Manufactured In: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the product immediately and contact Applica for instructions on receiving a replacement Black & Decker® Brand household product.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Applica at (800) 239-7145 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or go to the firm’s Web site at http://www.acprecall.com
Hewlett-Packard Company Recalls Digital Cameras Due to Fire Hazard, Offers Download Fix - 06/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: HP Photosmart R707 Digital Cameras
Units: About 224,000 (about 679,000 worldwide)
Importer: Hewlett-Packard Company, of Palo Alto, Calif.
Hazard: The digital camera can cause certain non-rechargeable batteries, such as the Duracell CP-1, to overheat when the camera is connected to an AC adapter or docking station, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: HP has received one report of a camera catching fire, damaging the camera and its docking station, and causing minor smoke damage to the room. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves the HP Photosmart R707 digital camera. The HP logo and the model name and number are printed on the front of the camera.
Sold at: Electronic, computer and camera stores, as well as Web retailers nationwide from August 2004 through April 2006 for between $250 and $400.
Manufactured In: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled cameras and contact HP as they have developed a firmware update that prevents the camera from applying a charge to a non-rechargeable battery. Consumers can download this update at www.hp.com or contact HP directly. Do not use single-use, non-rechargeable batteries until the firmware has been updated. Consumers are encouraged to update the firmware even if they do not use or intend to use a non-rechargeable battery.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, visit HP’s Web site at www.hp.com or call HP toll-free at (866) 304-7117 between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. MT Monday through Friday.
Media Contact: Jennifer Pershall at (360) 735-7962, or Jennifer.pershall@hp.com
First Alert® Smoke Alarms and Combination Smoke/CO Alarms Recalled for Rapidly Draining Battery Power - 05/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: First Alert® ONELINK™ Battery-Powered Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms
Units: About 145,890 (About 52,400 were sold to consumers)
Manufacturer: BRK Brands Inc., a subsidiary of First Alert Inc., of Aurora, Ill.
Hazard: These alarms can drain the power from batteries rapidly, causing premature low battery power. Consumers will be alerted to the low battery power and the need to replace the battery by a chirping of the unit. If the batteries on the smoke/CO alarm are not replaced before the battery power terminates, the alarm will not detect smoke in the event of a possible fire and the presence of carbon monoxide.
Incidents/Injuries: CPSC and First Alert Inc./BRK Brands Inc. have received about 329 reports of premature low battery power in these alarms. There have been no reports of injuries, incidents or alarms failing to detect smoke or carbon monoxide.
Description: The recall involves ONELINK™ battery-powered smoke and combination smoke/CO alarms. “First Alert” and “ONELINK™” are printed on the front of the alarm. The model number and date code are printed on the back of the alarm. Model number SA500 or SCO500 with a date code prior to March 3, 2006 are included in this recall.
Sold at: Department, home and hardware stores nationwide from June 2005 through March 2006 for between $45 and $75.
Manufactured In: Mexico
Remedy: Consumers should contact First Alert Inc./BRK Brands Inc. immediately to receive a replacement alarm. Until a new alarm is received, consumers should test the batteries in the alarm weekly by pressing the “test” button. If the alarm signals a low battery alert, consumers should immediately replace the batteries. Consumers should not remove their alarms until they have received a replacement alarm.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact First Alert Inc./BRK Brands Inc. at (800) 323-9005 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's web site at www.firstalert.com
Tecumseh Engines Used on Various Power Equipment Recalled Due to Fire Hazard - 04/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the manufacturers of the brands named below, today announced voluntary recalls of the following consumer products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Tecumseh Engines used in various Two-Stage Snow Throwers, Ice Augers, Generators, Lawn Mowers, Weed Trimmers, Log Splitters and Fun-Karts.
Units: About 170,000 engines used on various products
Manufacturer: Tecumseh Power Co., Grafton, Wis.
Hazard: The fuel line on these engines can become loose or disconnected, resulting in a fuel leak. This can pose a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Tecumseh has received 235 reports of disconnected fuel lines, including two reports of a fire. There have been no reports of injury. The firm has received 39 reports of minor damage, totaling about $44,000.
Description: The recall includes power equipment with Tecumseh engines listed below. The engine model number and date of manufacture (DOM) information is located on a label on the side of the housing. The recalled engines have a date of manufacture code (DOM) that starts with 05241 to 05286. The label on the engine reads, “Tecumseh Power Company,” and in addition to the Model and DOM information, lists the Spec number needed for identification.
| Power Equipment | Brand Names |
|---|---|
| Two-Stage Snow Throwers | Ariens, Craftsman, Cub Cadet, Huskee, Husqvarna, MTD Gold Series, Murray, Toro, Poulan Pro,Troy-Bilt, White Outdoor, Yard Machines, Yard Man |
| Log Splitters | Yard Machines |
| Ice Augers and Post Hole Diggers | Jiffy, Eskimo, Earthquake, Hoffco, MEPCO |
| Fun-Karts | Carter Brothers, Ken Bar |
| Generators | Coleman Powermate, NorthStar |
| Lawn Vac/Chipper | Agri-Fab, Craftsman |
| Lawn Mower | Toro |
| String Trimmers | Ariens |
Sold at: Home and hardware stores and equipment dealers nationwide from September 2005 through January 2006 for between $200 and $2000.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using their equipment until they receive a free inspection and possible repair if necessary. Note: Never store engine with fuel in tank in a building with potential sources of ignition such as hot water or space heaters, clothes dryer, electric motors, etc.
Consumer Contact: For more information, call Tecumseh toll-free at (888) 271-4048 between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit Tecumseh’s Web site at www.tecumsehpower.com - Consumers should have their engine model, Spec number, and DOM information available.
Olympus Recalls Film Cameras for Overheating, Poses Burn Hazard - 03/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Various Olympus-Brand 35mm Film Cameras
Units: About 1.2 million (in the U.S.)
Manufacturer: Olympus America Inc., of Melville, N.Y.
Hazard: A defect with the flash circuit in these cameras can cause it to smoke and overheat when the camera is turned on. This poses a possible burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Olympus America Inc. has received 21 reports of camera or flash circuitry overheating in the U.S. with no reports of injuries.
Description: The recall includes the Infinity Twin, AF-1 Twin, Infinity Zoom 200 series, AZ 200 series, and Quantary Infinity Zoom 222 Olympus-brand 35mm film cameras. The model name is printed on the face of the camera. These cameras have a built-in flash.
Sold at: Department, electronic and camera stores, and mail-order retailers nationwide from January 1989 through December 1995 for between $220 and $365.
Manufactured in: Japan
Remedy: Consumers should stop using these cameras and contact Olympus for information on receiving the free repair for this defect.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Olympus at (800) 480-1247 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or go to the firm’s Web site at www.olympusamerica.com
Fire and Burn Hazards Prompt Nite Lite Recall - 03/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: “Forever-Glo Nite Lites™”
Units: About 35,000
Manufacturer: American Tack & Hardware Co. Inc. (AmerTac), of Saddle River, N.J.
Hazard: An electrical short circuit in the nite lite can cause it to overheat and smolder or melt which can burn consumers or result in a fire.
Incidents/Injuries: AmerTac has received nine reports of incidents involving the recalled nite lites smoking, burning, melting and/or charring. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recalled “Forever-Glo Nite Lites™” look like small picture frames that plug into the wall. Only model numbers 75001 or 75002 with a manufacture date of April 2004 or later are included in this recall. Model 75001 is white or bronze-colored and has molded scroll-work around the front of the nite lite. “Model 75001” is printed on the back of the nite lite. Model 75002 is silver-colored and has a punched tin frame. “Model C8A5” is printed on the back. Both nite lite models measure about 3 inches by 3 inches and are about ¼ inch thick. “AmerTac™” and a circle with the month and year of manufacture are indicated on the back of the nite lites.
Sold at: Hardware stores, lighting showrooms and home centers nationwide from May 2004 through December 2005 for about $3.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled nite lites immediately. If the units are plugged into the wall, turn off the power at the circuit box and remove the light from the wall socket and contact the firm for a full refund or two free replacement nite lites.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the firm at (800) 420-7511 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit AmerTac’s Web site at www.amertac.com or www.recall-center.com
Big Lots Stores Inc. Recall Tea Light Candles for Fire Hazard - 03/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Harvest Brand Tea Light Candles
Units: About 233,000 sets
Importer/Distributor: Big Lots Stores Inc., of Columbus, Ohio
Hazard: The recalled candles can burn with a high flame and melt the plastic holders. This poses a fire and a burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Big Lots and CPSC have received four reports of incidents, three involve minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recalled red tea light candles are apple scented and have the brand name “Harvest” on the front packaging. Item number A5023 is written on the bottom of the packaging. The candles were sold in sets of six candles per package. The tea light candles measure 1½-inches wide by ¾-inch high. Each of the candles comes in a plastic holder.
Sold at: Big Lots stores exclusively nationwide from July 2005 through October 2005 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the tea light candles immediately and return them to the nearest Big Lots store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Big Lots at (866) 244-5687 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit Big Lot’s Web site at www.biglots.com
CPSC, Victoria’s Secret Direct Announce Recall of Silk Kimono Tops - 02/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Silk Kimono Tops
Units: About 500 units were manufactured by Single with 57 sold to consumers by Victoria’s Secret Direct
Retailer: Victoria’s Secret Direct, of Columbus, Ohio
Manufacturer: Single, of Los Angeles, Calif.
Hazard: The kimono tops are made of fabric that fails to meet mandatory standards of fabric flammability in violation of the federal Flammable Fabrics Act. The sheer outer shell fabric of the kimono top can readily ignite and present a risk of burn injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves the Silk Kimono Top, sold as catalog/Web site item number 194-860. This is a two-piece garment with a kimono outer shell and an orange inner camisole. The outer shell’s sewn in label states the following: “Single, 100% Silk, RN 80763, Made In USA, Dry Clean Only.” A separate label shows the item number 194-860. The Silk Kimono Tops were sold in paisley print pattern with metallic threads.
Sold at: Victoria’s Secret Direct catalogs and Web site only from November 2005 through December 2005 for about $138. These garments were not sold at Victoria’s Secret stores.
Manufactured In: USA
Remedy: Consumers should stop wearing the garment immediately. Contact Victoria’s Secret Direct for information on returning the kimono top and to receive a refund and $50 gift card.
Consumer Contact: For more information, call Victoria’s Secret Direct’s toll-free consumer hotline at (877) 260-8419 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.
Lasko Recalls Box and Pivoting Floor Fans Posing Fire Hazard - 02/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Lasko, General Electric, Galaxy, and Air King Brand Box and Pivoting Floor Fans
Units: About 5.6 million
Manufacturer: Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.
Hazard: An electrical failure in the motor can pose a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Lasko has received 42 reports of fires possibly associated with motor failures, with seven reports of injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation. At least eight of the reported fires resulted in extensive property damage.
Description: This recall involves various models of Lasko, Galaxy, Air King and General Electric fans manufactured between January 1999 and July 2001, and sold through February 2004. Styles and model numbers of recalled fans, which are either stamped or on a label on the bottom of the fans, are listed below:
| Brand | Type of Fan | Model Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Lasko | Box Fan Cyclone Fan Wind Machine Air Companion Air Director Wind Tunnel | Models 3700, 3723, 3733, 3750 Models 3510, 3550, 3800, 35105 Models 3300 and 3521 Model 3515 Model 2135 Models 3400 and 3410 |
| General Electric | Box Fan Cyclone Fan | Model 106620 Models 106600, 106630 |
| Galaxy | Box Fan | Model 3733 |
| Air King | Cyclone Fan (20” deluxe pivot fan) Air Companion (15” deluxe pivot fan) | Model 9500 Model 9515 |
Detailed information and pictures of affected models can be found at www.laskoproducts.com
Sold at: Discount department stores nationwide from September 2000 through February 2004 for between $10 and $25.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the fans immediately and contact Lasko to receive a free fan protection cord adaptor.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, visit Lasko’s Web site at www.laskoproducts.com or call the firm at (800) 984-3311 anytime.
CPSC, SFC America Announce Recall to Repair Fire Extinguishers - 02/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recalls in voluntary cooperation with the firms listed below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers
Units: About 50,900
Manufacturer: Strike First Corp., of Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.
Importer: Strike First Corporation of America (SFC America), of Front Royal, Va.
Hazard: The fire extinguishers can fail to discharge properly when the trigger is activated, which puts consumers at risk of fire-related injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: SFC America has received three reports of the fire extinguishers failing to discharge properly when activated. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recall includes Strike First 2.5 lb and 5 lb dry chemical fire extinguishers with model numbers WBSF-ABC110AP, WBSF-ABC210AP, and WBSF-ABC340AP. The model number is located under the manufacturer’s address on the far right hand side of the instruction label. The recalled fire extinguishers have the following serial numbers:
| Model Number | Serial Number Range |
|---|---|
| WBSF-ABC110AP | TC101566 through TC108819 |
| WBSF-ABC210AP | TC114969 through TC135000 VV822001 through VV832000 WH161001 through WH167622 |
| WBSF-ABC340AP | TC135894 through TC142345 |
Sold at: Fire extinguisher dealers nationwide from December 2002 through April 2004 for between $13 and $21.
Manufactured in: Canada
Remedy: Consumers with fire extinguishers included in the recall should immediately contact SFC America for information on how to arrange to have their extinguishers repaired.
Consumer Contact: Call SFC America at (800) 255-5515 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the SFC America Web site at www.strikefirstusa.com
DESA Heating Products Recalls Portable Propane Convection Heaters - 02/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: “40-80,000 BTU Portable Propane Convection Heaters”
Units: About 54,500
Importers: DESA Heating Products, of Bowling Green, Ky.
Hazard: The burners on these heaters can “flashback”, which is when fire burns inside the burner tube rather than out the end. This can cause the lower portion of the burner tube to get hot enough to ignite combustible material under the heater.
Incidents/Injuries: DESA has received 40 reports of incidents possibly caused by the flashback hazard, including six reports of fires. The other 34 reported incidents involved minor property damage, including scorching of the flooring under the heater. There have been no reports of injury.
Description: DESA 40-80,000 BTU Portable Propane Convection Heaters generate from 40,000 to 80,000 BTUs an hour. The following model names and number are involved in this recall: Reddy Heater (RCP80VC), All-Pro (SPC-80CC), MASTER (TC80VC), Universal (80-CC), and Dayton (6BY73). These heaters have serial numbers between 017390000 and 017632220. The model and serial numbers are on the carton and on labels attached to the heater. The designation “Made in China” is on the carton and model label attached to the heater.
Sold at: Home centers and hardware stores nationwide from August 2005 through December 2005 for between $100 and $130.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using this heater immediately and return it to the store where purchased for a free replacement, refund or store credit.
Consumer Contact: If consumers have any questions concerning this recall, they should contact their local retailer, or they can contact DESA toll-free at (866) 279-3225 between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the DESA Web site at www.desatech.com
Fire Hazard with Oscillating Heater Sold in Wal-Mart Prompts Recall - 01/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Maxi-Heat™ Dream Tower Heater
Units: About 75,000
Distributor: King of Fans Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Hazard: The wires inside the oscillating heater can short circuit and spark, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: King of Fans has received 31 reports of heaters smoking or sparking, and one report of a house fire. There have been no reports of injuries.
Description: The recalled model is CH920. The ceramic portable electric heaters are the oscillating tower type. They are grey and have a control panel attached to the top of the unit. “Maxi-Heat™” is printed on the control panel. The model number is printed on the ETL label on the bottom of the back side of the unit.
Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide from August 2005 through December 2005 for about $40.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these heaters and unplug them. Return the recalled heaters to a Wal-Mart store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact King of Fans toll-free at (866) 443-1291 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. E.T., Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s Web site at www.kingoffans.com
CPSC, Stihl Inc. Announce Recall of Chain Saws - 01/2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Stihl-brand MS 192 T Chain Saws
Units: About 23,500
Manufacturer: Stihl Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va.
Hazard: These chain saws can leak fuel, posing a fire hazard. A connection in the ignition grounding system could loosen and create a spark, posing a fire hazard. Also the springs in the clutch assembly could come out of position allowing a spring of the clutch to be projected from the saw housing resulting in injury to the user.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled Stihl-brand chain saws have model number MS 192 T, located on the side of the chain saw’s starter housing. They include serial numbers 264371702 through 266087005, which is located on the top/front of the chain saw’s housing.
Sold at: Authorized Stihl dealers nationwide from January 2005 through July 2005 for about $280.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should stop using these chain saws immediately and return them to an authorized Stihl dealer for a free repair.
Consumer Contact: Call Stihl Inc. at (800) 610-6677 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit Stihl’s Web site at www.stihlusa.com