The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·04094·Announced 2004-03-04

Lasko Space Heaters Recalled for Fire and Burn Hazards

Lasko is recalling 186,000 space heaters because the power cord connection can overheat and separate, posing fire, burn, and shock risks.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (fire, burn, shock) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Lasko Products Inc. is recalling approximately 186,000 space heaters, including the Model 5500 oscillating ceramic heater and the Model 5700 oil-filled radiator-type heater. The recall is due to a defect where the power cord connection can overheat and cause the cord to separate from the space heater. This condition poses a fire, burn, and shock hazard.

The heaters were sold nationwide at retailers such as Dollar General and Sam's Club from July 2001 through December 2003 for between $40 and $50. Four consumers reported burned and detached power cords, but no injuries have been reported. The heaters were manufactured in China and Portugal.

Consumers should stop using the heaters immediately and unplug them. They should contact Lasko Products toll-free at (800) 233-6373 or visit the company's website to receive instructions for a free replacement heater or a product of similar value.

The recalled product

Product
Space Heaters
Category
Consumer Product — Space Heaters
Hazard
Affected units
186,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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