The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·05019·Announced 2004-10-20

Zippo Recalls Multi-Purpose Utility Lighters Due to Fuel Spill Hazard

Zippo is recalling 101,557 multi-purpose utility lighters because they may spill butane fuel from the nozzle when first used, creating a potential fire hazard.

What this means for you

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 hazard) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Zippo Manufacturing Company is recalling approximately 101,557 MPL multi-purpose utility lighters. The recalled lighters are finished in black or silver metal with a chrome nozzle and use refillable butane fuel. The specific units subject to the recall are identified by date codes G03, H03, I03, or ZH03 located on the black adjuster knob on the bottom of the lighter.

The recall was issued because the utility lighters may spill fuel from the nozzle when first used. This spillage creates a potential fire hazard if a secondary source of ignition is present. There have been 27 reports of butane fuel spilling out of the nozzle, but there have been no reports that the product ignited or caused any injury.

The lighters were sold at Lowe's, Bed Bath and Beyond, select Yankee Candle stores, Barbeque Galore, Harrington and Hammacher Schlemmer Catalog, select Wal-Mart stores, and other convenience, hardware, and home stores from October 2003 to September 1, 2004. Consumers should call Zippo toll-free at (800) 320-7490 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to get the address to which the black adjuster knob must be sent to receive a free replacement lighter.

The recalled product

Product
MPL, multi-purpose utility lighter
Manufacturer
Zippo Manufacturing Company, of Bradford, Pa.
Category
Consumer Product — Lighters
Hazard
Affected units
101,557

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same manufacturer · Zippo Manufacturing Company, of Bradford, Pa.

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Same hazard · fire

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