WASHINGTON — Approximately half a million LG electric ranges have been recalled following reports of over 28 fires initiated by accidental knob activations, which not only caused minor injuries but also resulted in multiple pet fatalities. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning regarding this hazard, emphasizing that the incidents have occurred when the ranges were accidentally turned on by humans or pets brushing against front-mounted knobs.
The recall encompasses both LG slide-in and freestanding ranges which have been available for purchase across the United States since 2015. According to regulatory documents, these appliances were sold at major retailers including Best Buy, Costco, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s, as well as online on LG’s official website. Prices for these ranges typically ranged between $1,400 and $2,650.
The dilemma came to light following at least 86 instances where consumers reported unintended activation of these knobs, leading to over 28 fire incidents. Some of these fires were significant, cumulating in more than $340,000 in property damage. Notably, these incidents also resulted in at least eight minor injuries and were implicated in the deaths of three pets.
Manufactured in Mexico and South Korea, the affected models are identifiable by specific serial and model numbers found inside the oven door or in a storage drawer at the base of the oven. Consumers who own these models are urged to check their appliances against the recall list to see if their units are affected.
In response to the risks posed by the faulty design, the safety commission has issued guidelines urging consumers to ensure that all range knobs are in the off position when not in use and to keep both children and pets away from the kitchen appliances. Removing objects from the stove when it’s not active is also recommended to avoid accidental activation.
LG has acted by offering a free warning label that consumers can place on the affected ranges. This label comes with instructions on how to correctly use the Lock Out/Control Lock feature available on the appliances. This function is designed to prevent the heating elements from being activated when not in use.
For further assistance, LG has provided an instructional video online to guide consumers on how to utilize the control lock feature effectively. Moreover, a dedicated website section has been established where consumers can verify if their range model is included in the recall.
This incident underscores the importance of appliance safety and the need for manufacturers to prioritize consumer safety in their designs. It also highlights the crucial role of consumer vigilance and the effective use of built-in safety features to prevent unintended incidents.
Consumers impacted by the recall are encouraged to act promptly by verifying their range’s model and serial numbers and by contacting LG for the necessary safety enhancements. As the situation progresses, updates and additional guidelines are anticipated to ensure consumer safety and prevent further incidents.