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The product recall, issued Nov. 2, involves plastic handle extinguishers manufactured between 1973 and 2017 as well as eight models of plastic push button Pindicator fire extinguishers made from 1995 to 2017.
Kidde Professional or Badger branded fire extinguishers, or those with metal handles and valve assemblies are not included in the recall.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website advises these extinguishers "can become clogged or require excessive force to discharge and can fail to activate during a fire emergency. In addition, the nozzle can detach with enough force to pose an impact hazard."
One 2014 death was attributed to extinguisher malfunction when emergency responders trying to put out a car fire could not get the Kidde fire extinguisher to work. Nearly 400 other reports of property damage and injuries including smoke inhalation and minor burns have been received.
Moraga-Orinda Fire District Fire Marshal Kathy Leonard said the state fire marshal's office announced the recall in November. She said recall instructions "require the consumer to contact Kidde directly, not local fire agencies."
Kidde advises its consumers not to discard a recalled extinguisher before receiving its replacement, and although Leonard usually recommends expelling the product in the fire extinguisher before throwing it away, in this case "it would be potentially dangerous to do so."
Consumers may request a free replacement of affected models by calling Kidde toll-free at (855) 271-0773 or filing a form online at www.kidde.com.
Kidde hotline hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET Saturday and Sunday.
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA