Recall: Family Dollar Stores Recalls Oscillating Ceramic Heater for Fire Hazard

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 5, 2007 Release #07-076

Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 547-0359 CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Family Dollar Stores Recalls Oscillating Ceramic Heater for Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Oscillating Ceramic Heaters

Units: About 35,000 (17,000 with consumers)

Importer: Family Dollar Stores, of Charlotte, N.C.

Hazard: The heaters can overheat and smoke, which could pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Family Dollar has received three reports of the heaters overheating or smoking. There are no reports of fires and two reports of minor property damage.

Description: The recalled heater is a 1500 watt oscillating ceramic heater. The heater has a white plastic housing with the name "Heat-Wave" in black on its top. A label on the product contains the control number "ETL 3090262."

Sold at: Family Dollar stores nationwide from September 2006 through November 2006 for about $20.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the heaters and return them to a Family Dollar store for a full refund.

Customer Contact: For additional information, contact Family Dollar at (800) 547-0359 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.familydollar.com