Just days into August, Samsung has announced a major recall of over 1 million stoves nationwide due to safety concerns that pets could accidentally trigger a fire hazard.
The South Korea-based manufacturer of electronics on Thursday recalled its Slide-In Electric Range stoves due to their front-facing knobs, which can be easily turned on by accidental bumps from people and even pets. In total, Samsung has recalled 1,120,905 stoves, across an estimated 30 models sold between 2013 and 2024.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has published a list of the recalled model numbers. The model number can be found in the upper left corner of the oven door or inside of the storage bin at the bottom of the oven. Stove owners can contact Samsung to receive a free set of knob locks or covers that are compatible with their model.
Samsung said that it has received over 300 reports that the knobs have been accidentally turned on by pets or humans since 2013. Of those reports, 250 have involved fires. Meanwhile, there have been reports that seven fires led to the death of pets, while eight fires forced customers to seek medical attention.
Accidental Activation and Fires
The recall was initiated due to a significant number of incidents where the front-mounted knobs on Samsung electric slide-in ranges were accidentally activated by pets or humans, posing a serious fire hazard. Since 2013, Samsung has received over 300 reports of such incidents, resulting in approximately 250 fires, eight of which required medical attention. Sadly, seven pet deaths have been linked to these accidental fires.
Safety Precautions
A Closer Look at the Recall
The recall, announced by the CPSC, involves over 1.1 million Samsung electric slide-in ranges. These ranges were manufactured between 2013 and 2024 and feature front-mounted knobs that can be inadvertently activated by accidental contact. The issue stems from the design of the knobs, which can be easily turned on by a bump or touch, leading to unintended ignition and potential fire hazards.
Samsung's Response
Samsung, acknowledging the severity of the situation, has taken proactive steps to address the issue. The company has voluntarily recalled the affected stoves and is offering free knob locks or covers as a solution. These locks or covers are designed to prevent accidental activation of the knobs, mitigating the risk of fires. Consumers are encouraged to contact Samsung to request the free knob locks or covers.
Importance of Safety Measures
The CPSC emphasizes the importance of adhering to safety measures to prevent accidental fires. Consumers are advised to keep children and pets away from the knobs, ensuring that the stove is turned off before leaving the house or going to bed. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid placing any objects on the stove when not in use, as these items can easily ignite in case of an accidental activation.
Samsung's Commitment to Safety
Samsung has reiterated its commitment to consumer safety. The company is working closely with the CPSC to ensure that all affected stoves are equipped with the necessary safety measures. They have also introduced new safety features in their latest stove models to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
What to Do If You Own a Recalled Stove
If you own one of the recalled Samsung electric slide-in ranges, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety. Contact Samsung through their website, phone number, or email address to obtain the free knob locks or covers. Install these locks or covers as soon as possible to prevent accidental ignition. It is also advisable to follow the CPSC's safety recommendations for stove use to minimize the risk of fire hazards.
The Future of Stove Safety
This recall highlights the importance of prioritizing safety features in household appliances. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on designing products that are user-friendly, robust, and safe to operate. As technology advances, we can expect to see further improvements in stove design and functionality, ensuring a safer cooking experience for all consumers.
The Importance of Ongoing Safety Measures
It is important to remember that even with the recall and safety measures in place, it is essential to exercise caution when using stoves, especially in households with pets and children. Continuous vigilance and adherence to safety practices are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment for everyone in the home.
The recall and response from Samsung demonstrate a commitment to consumer safety. By taking prompt action and providing solutions, they are actively working to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of their customers. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of consumers to remain aware of potential hazards and take necessary precautions to safeguard their families and homes.
