The heating season is upon us again, and with fuel prices continuing to climb, many households turn to space heaters to keep the temperature tolerable without breaking the bank. However, space heaters require more attention and responsibility to operate than a furnace or boiler. It is estimated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission that space heaters are associated with more than 25,000 residential fires every year. These fires result in more than 300 deaths. Additionally, approximately 6,000 people receive emergency room care for burn injuries associated with contacting the hot surfaces of space heaters, mostly in non-fire situations.

Different models of space heaters burn different fuels, including wood, kerosene, and gas. Each have their own safety rules, including the most popular model of space heater: electric.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission offers these general guidelines for space heater use: (more…)

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Menards has announced the recall of approximately 42,000 units of the MasterForce 3.6-volt Cordless Screwdriver due to a potential fire and burn hazard. The recall is effective immediately.

The Menards Company, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, imports the products from the Great Star Industry Co., of China. The screwdrivers were manufactured without any protective device on the lithium battery, creating the potential for overheating and fire during charging.

To date, three reports of fires have been received. Minor injuries, including burns to the hands and temporary hearing loss,  were also reported.

The recalled cordless screwdrivers are described as (more…)

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Accessory bags for children’s cosmetics have been recalled due to the presence of high levels of lead in the bag’s handle clasps.  These clasps pose a poisoning risk if swallowed.  It is reported that just under one million units (about 945,000) are part of this recall.  The bags were sold under the Bonne Bell name at retail stores nationwide and at Bonne Bell’s website from September 2007 through August 2008 for about $9.

Consumers can recognize the products by the name Bonne Bell Children’s Cosmetics Accessory Bags, as well as through the description below.  Please note that the cosmetic products sold inside of the bag are not part of this recall.  The products were originally manufactured in China.  To date, there have been no reports of injuries or incidents.  This is a voluntary recall.  Please refer to the following information for positive identification of these products: (more…)

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A voluntary recall has been issued for 12-cup Kenmore coffee makers, model numbers 100.80006, 100.81006, and 100.82006. Kenmore Elite models 100.90007 and 100.90006 are also included in the recall. This recall has been reported by the CPSC. Consumers are instructed to stop using these hazardous products immediately due to overheating risks and fire hazards. Products should be (more…)

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