Kiddie has recalled 134 models of fire extinguishers manufactured between 1973 and 2015. These models include plastic handle fire extinguishers and push-button Pindicator fire extinguishers.
Many marine models are included in this recall including models that were previously recalled in March 2009 and February 2015. The extinguishers were sold in red, white and silver, and are either ABC- or BC-rated. The model number is printed on the fire extinguisher label. For units produced in 2007 and beyond, the date of manufacture is a 10-digit date code printed on the side of the cylinder, near the bottom. Digits five through nine represent the day and year of manufacture in DDDYY format. Date codes for recalled models manufactured from January 2, 2012 through August 15, 2017 are 00212 through 22717. For units produced before 2007, a date code is not printed on the fire extinguisher.
The fire extinguishers can become clogged or require excessive force to discharge and can fail to activate during a fire emergency. In addition, the nozzle can detach with enough force to pose an impact hazard. You can contact Kiddie directly to check your extinguishers to see if they are affected and to learn more info on how to get replacement extinguishers.
Kidde toll-free at 855-271-0773 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET Saturday and Sunday, or online at www.kidde.com and click on “Product Safety Recall” for more information.
This is also a good time to remind everyone to check your extinguishers to insure they are fully charged and in good operating condition. Also it’s not a bad idea to give them a shake and turn them upside down a few time to loosen any dry chemical powder that may have become compacted on the bottom of the extinguisher. If your extinguisher is rechargeable it should be recharged every 10 years. If your extinguisher is disposable it should be replaced every 12 years!
From Kiddies website:
Rechargeable fire extinguishers
According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, rechargeable fire extinguishers must be recharged every 10 years.
A rechargeable fire extinguisher has a metal head, and a gauge that reads Charge / Recharge. Check your fire extinguishers gauge monthly to verify that your fire extinguisher is still charged. If the extinguisher’s gauge needle is in the Recharge area, have your fire extinguisher recharged immediately.
Kidde’s rechargeable fire extinguishers all have a six-year warranty.
For more information about your specific fire extinguisher, refer to your user’s manual.
Disposable fire extinguishers
According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, disposable fire extinguishers must be replaced every 12 years.
A disposable fire extinguisher has a plastic head, and a gauge that reads Full / Empty. Check your fire extinguishers gauge monthly to verify that your fire extinguisher is still full. If the extinguisher’s gauge needle is in the EMPTY area, replace your fire extinguisher immediately.
Kidde’s disposable fire extinguishers all have a 10 to 12-year warranty.
For more information about your specific fire extinguisher, refer to your user’s manual.