The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·77001·Announced 1997-01-03

Bernzomatic Foam Fire Extinguishers Recalled Due to Rupture Risk

Bernzomatic is recalling 1970 model FE18UL foam fire extinguishers because the tanks may corrode and rupture, posing a risk of injury.

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 injury from tank rupture and explosion, but the source text does not report any actual injuries or illnesses, fitting the criterion for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Bernzomatic Corp. (now a brand under Irwin Industrial) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have renewed a recall notice for certain outdated fire extinguishers. The specific units involved are the 1970 model FE18UL disposable foam fire extinguishers. These devices were originally manufactured in 1970 and sold at retail for approximately $2.49 each during 1970 and 1971.

The recall is due to a safety hazard where the solution inside the devices ages, causing the extinguisher tanks to corrode. This corrosion increases the likelihood of the tank rupturing, which could lead to injury. The company changed the formula in subsequent models to address this issue. The recalled units are red with white lettering reading "Bernzometic Foam Fire Extinguisher" (note the spelling in the source). They measure 2 7/8 inches in diameter by 7 1/2 inches in length. The model number FE18UL appears on the rear label, with the date "1970" imprinted in the upper left corner.

These extinguishers were sold in variety stores and chain grocery stores, primarily in the Northeast United States. Consumers who possess a Bernzomatic 1970 model FE18UL unit are urged to discharge the contents. A free replacement may be obtained by calling Irwin Industrial toll-free at 800-654-9011.

The recalled product

Product
Bernzomatic Foam Fire Extinguishers
Manufacturer
Bernzomatic

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.