"Firestopper" fire extinguishers recall 00-111

"Firestopper" fire extinguishers

CPSC, Discount Stores Announce Recall of Fire Extinguishers

CPSC published a recall notice for "Firestopper" fire extinguishers from 99 Cents Only Store, in City on May 18, 2000. CPSC identifies this hazard: Because of the high-pressure contents of these fire extinguishers, they can explode and expose consumers to flying debris, causing puncture wounds and blast injuries. The official remedy states: Consumers should discharge these fire extinguishers into a plastic garbage bag or similar container outside, in an open area. Consumers can return the discharged units to the store where purchased, for a refund.

What to check on the product label

Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Which products are included?

The fire extinguisher is yellow with a black top and a red spout. "FIRESTOPPER" is written on the side of the extinguisher in orange. The "I" in the name is written to resemble a flame. Other writing on the unit includes "ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE," "NON-TOXIC," "The Portable Liquid Fire Extinguisher," and "MADE IN THE USA." The extinguisher is about 10 inches high, and the net weight is 12 ounces. The product was originally marketed by Bombay Productions Inc. in California.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

Because of the high-pressure contents of these fire extinguishers, they can explode and expose consumers to flying debris, causing puncture wounds and blast injuries.

Incidents and injuries

CPSC and the firm have received five reports of the fire extinguisher exploding in consumers' homes. One consumer was hit by flying debris, but was not injured. The explosions have resulted in property damage.

Official remedy

Consumers should discharge these fire extinguishers into a plastic garbage bag or similar container outside, in an open area. Consumers can return the discharged units to the store where purchased, for a refund.

Product and sales details

Brand: 99 Cents Only Store, in City
Product type: Fire extinguishers
Recall number: 00-111
Units: About 26,000
Manufactured in: United States
Sold at / sales period: Dollar-type discount stores, including Only Deals and Bargain Wholesale, and wholesalers sold these fire extinguishers nationwide, from January 1999 through February 2000, for between $.99 and $4.
Distributor: 99 Cents Only Store, in City of Commerce, Calif.