Recall #17-031 · Published November 10, 2016

Walter Kidde Portable Equipment Kidde NightHawk combination smoke/carbon monoxide (CO) alarms

Kidde Recalls Combination Smoke/CO Alarms Due to Alarm Failure

CPSC published a recall notice for Kidde NightHawk combination smoke/carbon monoxide (CO) alarms from Walter Kidde Portable Equipment on November 10, 2016. CPSC identifies this hazard: The alarm can fail to continue to chirp when it reaches its 7-year end of life if the batteries are replaced, leading consumers to believe it is still working. This poses a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire or CO incident in their home. The official remedy states: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled alarms and contact Kidde directly for a free replacement alarm based on date of manufacture or a discount on a new alarm.

Front of unit, with wire connectors
Front of unit, with wire connectors
Image: CPSC recall notice

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.

Additional identifying details

This recall involves Kidde NightHawk talking combo smoke/CO alarm with model number KN-COSM-IB and manufacture dates between June 1, 2004 and December 31, 2010.

Which products are included?

This recall involves Kidde NightHawk talking combo smoke/CO alarm with model number KN-COSM-IB and manufacture dates between June 1, 2004 and December 31, 2010. The alarms are hard-wired into a home's electric power. The unit has a compartment on the back for the installation of a replaceable 9V backup battery. The alarm is white, round and measures about 5 to 6 inches in diameter. "Kidde" is engraved on the front of the alarm. "Kidde," the model number and manufacture dates are printed on a label on the back on the alarm.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

The alarm can fail to continue to chirp when it reaches its 7-year end of life if the batteries are replaced, leading consumers to believe it is still working. This poses a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire or CO incident in their home.

Incidents and injuries

Kidde has received eight reports of incidents with the recalled alarms. No injuries have been reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled alarms and contact Kidde directly for a free replacement alarm based on date of manufacture or a discount on a new alarm.

Remedy type: Replace

Product and sales details

Recall number
17-031
Units
About 3.6 million (in addition 1.5 million were sold in Canada)
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
Electrical distributors and home centers nationwide and online at Amazon.com from June 2004 through December 2010 for between $40 and $65.
Importer
Walter Kidde Portable Equipment Inc., of Mebane, N.C.

Recall contact information

Kidde toll-free at 855-239-0490 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Notice" for more information.

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

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