American Electric Recalls Brite Bar Fluorescent Lights Due to Fire Hazard

Plain-English summary

American Electric Corporation has voluntarily recalled more than 20,000 Brite Bar fluorescent light fixtures, specifically model 9500, due to a potential electrical fire hazard. This is a second bulletin issued in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to facilitate the recovery of units still in use. The affected fixtures were manufactured between September and December 1977 and sold in 28 states for approximately $10 each.

The hazard stems from a design defect in the power cord. If the cord is coiled, folded, or used contrary to instructions, the insulation may melt, exposing wires that could start a fire. CPSC engineers confirmed this defect during safety tests. The company has received reports of two instances where the cord allegedly started fires in consumers' homes, though no injuries have been reported. Fixtures that do not display the red warning text "Caution: Do not cut or coil" on the cord are equipped with a new, defect-free cord and are not part of this recall.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled lights. They can return the fixtures to American Electric Corporation for a free replacement or a full refund, including postage costs. To receive a refund, consumers must include proof of purchase indicating the retail price paid. The company's address is 9937 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, California, 90230, Attention: June Polk, Consumer Relations Manager. Consumers can verify the model number by calling CPSC's toll-free hotline at 800/638-2772.

The recalled product

Product

Brite Bar fluorescent light fixtures

Manufacturer

American Electric

Category

Consumer Product — Lighting

Hazard

• fire
• burn-injury

Distribution

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