The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·01223·Announced 2001-08-28

Ozark Trail and Wenzel Propane Camping Lanterns Recalled for Fire Hazard

Wenzel is recalling about 290,000 propane camping lanterns because an insufficient connection can allow gas to escape and ignite, posing a fire and injury risk.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a fire hazard with reported injuries, including burns to the arm, hand, and eye, which meets the criteria for a Severe rating due to significant injury reports.

Plain-English summary

Wenzel Co. is recalling approximately 290,000 Ozark Trail and Wenzel propane-fueled camping lanterns. The recall involves specific models sold nationwide between January 1999 and August 2001. The affected lanterns are green and silver with brass fittings and a glass globe. The Ozark Trail models are 824927 and 824928, while the Wenzel models are 824208, 824226, 824227, and 824401. The propane cylinders are not part of the recall and were sold separately.

The recall is due to an insufficient connection between the lantern and the propane cylinder, which can allow gas to escape and ignite unexpectedly. This hazard can occur during lighting or normal use. Wenzel has received 12 reports of propane gas escaping and igniting. Two consumers sustained burns to the arm and hand, and one of these consumers also suffered burns to the eye.

Consumers should stop using the lanterns immediately and detach them from the propane cylinder. The lanterns were sold at Wal-Mart under the "Ozark Trail" label for about $18, and at sporting goods and camping equipment stores under the "Wenzel" brand for between $18 and $28. Consumers should return only the lanterns to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, consumers can call Wenzel toll-free at (800) 325-8368 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CDT, Monday through Friday.

The recalled product

Product
Ozark Trail and Wenzel propane-fueled camping lanterns
Affected units
290,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Same manufacturer · Wenzel Co., of St. Louis, Mo.

See all →