The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·14733·Announced 2014-05-01

Altria Recalls 3-in-1 Flashlight Due to Burn and Injury Hazards

Altria Group Distribution Company is recalling 365,000 Marlboro promotional flashlights because matches can ignite inside the device, posing burn and injury 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 (burns/injuries) with reported incidents of ignition and medical attention, but no fatalities or severe injuries are reported, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for injury risks without critical outcomes.

Plain-English summary

Altria Group Distribution Company (AGDC) is recalling approximately 365,000 units of a bronze-colored 3-in-1 flashlight, compass, and match holder. The product was distributed exclusively through Marlboro.com and 1-800-Marlboro from January 2014 through March 2014. The flashlight features five LED lights, a match compartment, and a compass cap with an internal striker pad. It was originally packaged with 20 wooden matches and a removable foam insert.

The recall is due to a hazard where matches inside the holder can ignite when they come into contact with the striker pad beneath the compass cap. This poses burn and injury hazards to consumers. The company has received 11 reports of matches igniting inside the product, including two reports of the product exploding. One consumer reported minor burns, and another reported receiving medical attention for hand injuries.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled product, remove the matches, and store them safely. AGDC is contacting consumers directly to offer a free replacement item of equal or greater value. Consumers can also contact AGDC toll-free at (888) 597-5387 or visit www.marlboro.com or www.philipmorrisusa.com for more information.

The recalled product

Product
3-in-1 flashlight, compass and match holder
Category
Consumer Product — Flashlights
Hazard
Affected units
365,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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