Ace Hardware Recalls Butane Lighters Due to Fire and Burn Risk

Plain-English summary

Ace Hardware Corp. is recalling approximately 403,000 Ace butane multipurpose lighters in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The lighters can leak excess butane during use, which may cause an unexpected flashback or sudden burst of flame. This defect presents a risk of burns to consumers and can lead to unintentional fires.

Ace Hardware has received six reports of flame flashback, including one instance of a small kitchen fire and one consumer having their hair singed. The affected lighters are approximately 9 inches long with a black plastic base, red plastic trim, and a metal igniter shaft. The bottom of the handle is marked "MADE IN CHINA" and the igniter shaft is embossed with "GAS TORCH." A red sticker on the lighter reads "refillable."

These lighters were sold under Ace brand packaging with item number 4100715, printed on the upper right corner of the package. Ace Hardware stores nationwide sold the lighters from March 1997 to May 1998 for between $2 and $3. Consumers should stop using the lighters immediately and return them to any independent Ace Hardware Store for a refund. For more information, contact Ace Hardware Corp. toll-free at (877) 223-4391.

The recalled product

Product

Ace butane multipurpose lighters

Manufacturer

Ace Hardware

Category

Consumer Product — Lighters

Hazard

• fire
• burn-injury

Distribution

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