Among the biggest fears of homeowners is a fire that can potentially destroy their homes and harm or even take their families. Statistics from the United States Fire Administration (a division of FEMA) show that in 2011, 364,500 residential fires occurred across the nation, killing some 2,450 people. And, unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) exposure accounts for an estimated 500 deaths in the US each year.
The statistics can be reduced if more homeowners properly install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. However, one popular model recently failed consumer expectations, prompting a recall of more than 1.2 million units in the US and another 112,000 in Canada. Officials with Mebane, North Carolina-based Kidde United Technologies issued the recall, warning that the alarms could fail to alert consumers of a fire or CO incident after a power outage.
The recall affects three Kidde models:
- The residential smoke alarm model i12010S with manufacture dates between December 18, 2013 and May 13, 2014;
- The combination smoke/CO alarm il2010SCO with manufacture dates between December 30, 2013 and May 13, 2014;
- And combination smoke/CO alarm model KN-COSM-IBA with manufacture date between October 22, 2013 and May 13, 2014.
Recalled units are white in color, round in shape, measure five to six inches in diameter and are hardwired into your home’s electric power. Look for the model and manufacture number printed on a label on the back of the alarm. They were sold at major home supplies retailers like Home Depot and online at Amazon.com, HomeDepot.com and shopkidde.com from January 2014 through July 2014 for between $30 and $50.
Fortunately, no incidents or injuries caused by the malfunctioning smoke and CO alarms have been reported, but company officials and product liability attorneys urge owners to heed the recall nonetheless. Owners can request free replacement alarms online or by calling the company toll-free at 844-553-9011.
Know that symptoms of CO exposure can mimic those of the common flu – a big concern as we head into the fall and winter season. If you believe that you or your family members have been exposed to CO in your home, or if you’ve suffered fire-related injuries or property losses because an installed smoke or CO alarm failed to warn you of danger, get medical treatment. Then, call 407-999-8995 to talk with an experienced product liability or personal injury attorney with Orlando’s Todd E. Copeland & Associates.
