Recall: Gas Grill Cylinders Recall by Rotarex & Worthington

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Ken Giles
August 26, 1997	(301) 504-7052
Release # 97-174

CPSC, Rotarex and Worthington Announce Recall to Repair Valves on Gas Grill Cylinders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Rotarex Inc. of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., and Worthington Cylinder Corp. of Columbus, Ohio, are recalling about 6,000 Worthington gas grill cylinders to repair their valves. The valve handles on these cylinders can loosen and separate from the rest of the valve and cylinder, releasing propane vapors. The vapors could catch on fire or explode if ignited, and if the vapors contact skin, consumers could suffer a freeze burn or frostbite.

CPSC, Rotarex and Worthington are not aware of any injuries involving these gas grill cylinders. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The Worthington 20 pound gas grill cylinder involved in this recall has the following four markings: "WCW" on the top of the cylinder's handle, "07-97" on the outside of the cylinder's handle, three stars in a triangular formation on the neck of the cylinder valve, which is underneath the hand wheel, and serial numbers from 3632601F through 3671600F on the inside of the cylinder's handle.

If consumers have purchased or exchanged gas grill cylinders since July 15, 1997, they should check the cylinders to determine if they are involved in this recall. These cylinders cost about $27. Consumers should stop using the recalled cylinders immediately and call Rotarex at (800) 325-5721 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday for information on having the cylinder repaired or replaced. Consumers should not attempt to disconnect the valve or turn the cylinder's handle, and consumers should remove all ignition sources from the area around the grill. Additionally, if consumers smell gas or hear a gas leak, they should immediately call the fire department.