Please check your fire extinguisher today.
Earlier this month, a recall of fire extinguishers was issued by Kidde (the leading manufacturer of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment). The recall is for 37.8 million fire extinguishers made between 1973 and August 2017 that have plastic handles or plastic push-buttons.
The recall includes most Kidde fire extinguishers rated ABC or BC. These are the models most commonly purchased by homeowners and others. These units are widely available in hardware and home improvement stores throughout the nation. They were produced in white, silver, or red.
If your fire extinguisher is made by Kidde and was manufactured during or after 2007, it may be included in the recall. Some earlier models also included in the recall have both plastic handles and “round-shouldered bottles.”
In addition to those sold under the name Kidde, these units may have been sold under a “private label” brand. These brands include: Costco, Sears, Honeywell, Montgomery Ward, Traveler, and Fire Away.
Kidde indicated that most of these fire extinguishers have been reliable. Defective fire extinguishers are probably identified only when the consumer tries to use the extinguisher. The defect allows the units to clog or to require extreme force to discharge the contents. They can also fail to operate. When they clog, the nozzle on the unit can detach enough to become an impact hazard. One death has been reported in connection with these extinguishers.
The recall does not include Kidde Professional or Badger branded fire extinguishers. Units that were made with metal handles and metal valve assemblies are not included in the recall.
If you believe you have a defective fire extinguisher, click here and then click on the “Product Safety Recall Notice” for more information and instructions.
If you have one of the recalled fire extinguishers, call Kidde at 855-271-0773 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday. You may also contact Kidde online at www.kidde.com for a replacement.
Defective products of many types can be very dangerous and cause serious harm to you or to a loved one. It is important to take action when any product recall is issued. If you or a loved one are injured by a defective or dangerous product, call the experienced attorneys of Altizer Law, P.C. We encourage you to schedule an appointment and come in to discuss your injury with Bettina or Terri. As always, if you cannot come to our office, we will come to you.
