A major manufacturer of fire extinguishers has issued a recall after hundreds of reports of failed or limited fire extinguisher activation and at least one death, in which emergency responders could not get the recalled fire extinguisher to work.
The recall is extensive and goes back more than 40 years, including 134 different models manufactured between 1973 and 2017. More than 35 million fire extinguishers are included in the recall.
According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, the recall includes two styles of Kidde fire extinguishers: plastic handle models and push-button Pindicator models. A complete list of the recalled fire extinguishers and detailed identification instructions can be found on the CPSC website.
The recalled fire extinguishers can become clogged or require excessive force to discharge and can fail to activate in an emergency. In addition, the nozzle can detach with enough force to cause an impact hazard. There have been almost 400 reports of failed or limited activation or nozzle detachment, many resulting in a variety of injuries and property damage.
The faulty fire extinguishers, ranging in cost from $12 to $200, were sold at a variety of department, home and hardware stores nationwide, as well as on line. Many were also sold with commercial trucks, recreational vehicles, personal watercraft and boats.
If you have a recalled fire extinguisher, you should contact Kidde to request a replacement and for instructions on returning the recalled unit. Kidde can be reached toll free at 855-271-0773 or online at www.kidde.com. Click on “Product Safety Recall” for more information.