More than 40 million fire extinguishers recalled, Altoona Fire Chief weighs in

Thursday, November 2, 2017

DETROIT (AP) - - More than 40 million fire extinguishers in the U.S. and Canada are recalled because they might not work in an emergency.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says on its website that it's aware of one death because of a problem with extinguishers made by Kidde. In 2014, extinguishers didn't work for emergency responders who were trying to fight a car fire after a crash.
   
The recall covers 134 models of push-button and plastic-handle extinguishers made from 1973 through Aug. 15 of this year.

Officials said the faulty extinguishers can get clogged or require excessive force to discharge or can fail to activate in an emergency.

"People should look into getting these replaced. If there's an issue with your extinguisher, when you have a fire, it's not the time to find out about it. You need to be proactive and get this taken care of right away," Altoona Fire Chief, Mark Renderman said.

The government says the extinguishers can become clogged. Also, the nozzle can come off and pose an injury hazard.
   
Owners should contact Kidde to ask for a free replacement and for instructions on how to return recalled models.
   
Kidde can be reached at (855) 271-0773 or at www.kidde.com.

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