Model BK-2000-7 "Insect Electrocutor" electric bug killers
CPSC Recall #87-040 - July 9, 1987
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | 87-040 |
| Recall Date | July 9, 1987 |
| Remedy Type | Replace |
| Units Affected | Approximately 21,000 |
Where It Was Sold
| The model affected was sold at Lowe's stores in 21 states (see list attached) since March 15 |
| 1987 |
| and retailed for $19.99. |
Product
Model BK-2000-7 "Insect Electrocutor" electric bug killers
Description
WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Lowe's Companies, Inc., of North Wilkesboro, NC, is voluntarily recalling model BK-2000-7 electric bug killers.Lowe's Companies Inc., is taking this action because infrequent cleaning of insect accumulation in the units in conjunction with high-humidity conditions can cause the products to catch fire. Lowe's is aware of 14 fires with this model, four of which caused property damage.The model affected was sold at Lowe's stores in 21 states (see list attached) since March 15, 1987, and retailed for $19.99. Approximately 21,000 of these bug killers were distributed since spring.The model BK-2000-7 "Insect Electrocutor" is black, approximately 13 inches high and 8 inches square. A label on the top of the unit shows the model number, item number 73012, and the UL listing mark. The units have a short black cord with a three prong plug.If you have one of these bug killers, you should immediately discontinue use of the product and return the product to any Lowe's store for a new unit at no charge.Lowe's recently identified this potential problem and voluntarily reported it to the CPSC.To report unsafe consumer products or to receive safety information call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (800) 638-8270.
Hazard
Lowe's Companies Inc., is taking this action because infrequent cleaning of insect accumulation in the units in conjunction with high-humidity conditions can cause the products to catch fire.
Incidents & Injuries
Lowe's is aware of 14 fires with this model, four of which caused property damage.
Remedy Instructions
If you have one of these bug killers, you should immediately discontinue use of the product and return the product to any Lowe's store for a new unit at no charge.
What Should You Do?
Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Replace at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly, either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Replace) at no cost to you.
If the product caused a fire or burn injury, document the incident with photos and preserve the product if it is safe to do so. Report the incident to the CPSC at SaferProducts.gov and to your local fire department. Contact the manufacturer to inform them of the incident, they are required to track and report injuries to CPSC. You may also want to consult a personal injury attorney, as fire and burn injuries caused by defective products can be grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.
If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney, parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.