According to recent news reports Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has voluntarily recalled 2.2 million portable electric heaters due to a possible fire hazard. The recall was made after Wal-Mart received reports of:
- 21 total fire or sparking incidents of which:
- 11 incidents caused property damage
- 4 incidents resulted in bodily injury
- 3 incidents required medical treatment for minor burns and smoke inhalation
The heaters being recalled were sold only at Wal-Mart stores in the United States from December 2001 – October 2009 for around $18. They were manufactured in China. The recalled portable electric heaters were sold under the following names:
- Flow Pro
- Airtech
- Aloha Breeze
- Comfort Essentials
The heaters:
- are 1500 watt units
- are gray including the control knobs
- have vent openings on the front
- have a metal handle on the top
- have model number 1013 on a label on the back of the heater
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges owners of these types of heaters to immediately discontinue their usage. Affected owners can take their recalled heaters to any Wal-Mart store for a refund.
Portable electric heaters are a common household necessity for many families throughout the states. However even properly functioning heaters can cause severe problems if left unattended in certain situations. Consequently I urge you to heed the CPSCs warning if you happen to have this type of heater at your house or place of business and to discontinue using it so that it does not have the opportunity to cause injury or harm.
– Texas Product Liability Lawyer Michael Grossman
