Additional Coverage:
- Recall expands to nearly 1M Frigidaire minifridges sold at Target over fire hazards (foxbusiness.com)
Urgent Safety Alert: Frigidaire Mini-Fridge Recall Expands to Nearly 1 Million Units Amid Fire Reports
[City, State] – A widespread recall involving Frigidaire-branded mini-fridges has been significantly expanded, now encompassing a staggering 964,000 units across the United States. The move comes after numerous reports of the compact appliances catching fire, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Canada-based Curtis International, the company behind the products, initially recalled 634,000 mini-fridges last summer. However, an additional 330,000 units of a different model were added to the urgent alert on Thursday, bringing the total close to the one-million mark.
The core issue lies within the mini-fridges’ electrical components, which are susceptible to short-circuiting. This malfunction can ignite the plastic materials used in the product’s construction, posing serious fire and burn hazards to consumers.
The expanded recall specifically includes Frigidaire mini-fridges with model number EFMIS121. These particular units were sold exclusively at Target stores and its website in the U.S. between January 2020 and October 2023, retailing for approximately $30. At least six incidents of these specific mini-fridges catching fire have been reported, resulting in property damages.
Last year’s initial recall covered Frigidaire mini-fridges with model numbers EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, and EFMIS175. At the time, 26 incidents were reported, including the products overheating, melting, or igniting.
Disturbingly, two consumers sustained smoke inhalation injuries, and property damages linked to these units alone exceeded $700,000. These earlier recalled models were sold at various retailers, including Walmart and Amazon.
Immediate Action Required for Consumers
The CPSC is strongly urging all consumers who own any of the recalled Frigidaire mini-fridges to cease use immediately and request a full refund. To initiate the refund process and safely dispose of the unit, consumers should:
- Unplug the mini-fridge.
- **Cut the power cord.
**
3.
Write “Recall” on the front door of the unit using a permanent marker.
4.
Dispose of the recalled mini-fridge in accordance with local and state regulations.
This expanded recall underscores the critical importance of heeding product safety warnings. If you believe you own a recalled Frigidaire mini-fridge, do not delay in taking the necessary steps to ensure your safety and the safety of your property.