CPSC reports fire/safety hazards
The following items have been identified as potential fire or safety hazards by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):
Satellight Oil Candles (Glass Dimensions of Essex, Massachusetts). They may leak fuel and ignite. The Vermont Fire Protection Division reported to the CPSC one fire resulting from a faulty candle. About 1,082 candles are being recalled; they were sold nationwide by upscale boutiques and specialty shops from January through February 1994. Elliptical glass containers measure between four and eight inches in diameter and less than two inches in height. The recalled items have a clear support mechanism that fits flush against an eyelet that holds the wick in place, which prevents air from passing into the candle`s oil reservoir and may cause pressure buildup and fuel leakage. Units that have two opposite slots in the eyelets holding the wick or a wire holding the wick in place have enough space for air to pass through and are not involved in the recall. The affected candles should be returned for a refund. Additional information is available from Glass Dimensions at (508) 768-7984.
Automatic Bread and Dough Makers (West Bend Company). The breadmakers can overheat. Three incidents have been reported in which a faulty circuit board of the control panel overheated and caught fire. West Bend is providing free pickup and repair of the breadmakers. The 12 models involved were manufactured between June 1, 1994 and April 9,1995. The date is stamped on the back of the unit. The units were sold nationwide and in Canada at retailers such as Wal-Mart, Target, and Sam`s Club. Information may be obtained by calling (800) 367-0111 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. central time or Debra Kumm at (414) 334-6909.
Dayton Model 4E154 Electric Ceiling Heaters (Fasco Consumer Products Inc. of Fayetteville, N.C.). Heating element terminals could expose consumers to fatal electric shocks or fires. The 661 units involved were sold by Grainger wholesale branch stores from January 1993 to August 1994 to contractors, electrical supply retailers, and other customers. A wire mesh grill covers the heating element. The metal heaters are 10 inches in diameter and have a round metal nameplate with the model number in the center of the heater cover. Units with the following date codes are being recalled: A to H-93, J to M-93, A to D-94. The date is on the data plate on the upper inside surface of the heater housing. (Turn off heater`s power supply at the circuit breaker before disassembling and inspecting the plate.) A qualified electrician should disconnect the old unit and install the replacement. Replacement units are available from Grainger branch stores. For additional information, call Fasco Consumer Products at (800) 915-9590. n
