Empower Brands is expanding its recall of Black & Decker Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers after receiving reports of burn injuries resulting from hot water spewing out of the devices. The initial recall of nearly 520,000 steamers in November 2022 offered a repair remedy, but continued reports of burn injuries led to the recall of an additional 1.6 million units, including those that were previously repaired. The recall includes all units of the model and a full refund is being offered to consumers instead of a repair. The product-safety commission has highlighted the burn hazards posed by these steamers, noting incidents where hot water expelled from the steamers resulted in burn injuries.
Empower Brands has received 317 reports of hot water expelling from the Black & Decker steamers, with 82 resulting in burn injuries, including seven second-degree burns. Ninety-four of these incidents, including 19 of the burn injuries, involved repaired units or models with an updated design. The CPSC is urging consumers to stop using the impacted steamers immediately and to contact Empower Brands for a full refund. The Black & Decker Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers were sold in various colors at retailers such as Walmart, Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon, and the Black & Decker website between June 2021 and February 2024.
Consumers can identify the recalled products by checking the label, model number, and UPC code, all of which are listed on the CPSC’s notice. The expansion of the recall aims to prevent further burn injuries caused by the steamers leaking or spraying hot water during use. Empower Brands, a subsidiary of Middleton, Wisconsin-based Spectrum Brands Inc., is working to address the safety concerns and provide refunds to affected consumers. The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing product safety issues promptly to protect consumers from potential harm.
As the recall of Black & Decker-branded clothing steamers continues to expand, consumers are urged to prioritize safety and cease using the recalled devices to avoid the risk of burn injuries. The recall covers all units of the Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers, including those that have been previously repaired, and offers full refunds to impacted consumers. Empower Brands is committed to addressing the burn hazards posed by these steamers and is working to provide timely refunds to ensure consumer safety. It is essential for consumers to take immediate action and contact Empower Brands for a refund if they have purchased the recalled steamers to avoid any potential risks.
The incidents of burn injuries caused by hot water spewing out of the recalled Black & Decker steamers highlight the importance of product safety and quality control measures. With 317 reports of hot water expulsion and 82 resulting burn injuries, the recall serves as a cautionary tale for consumers to be vigilant about product safety and potential hazards. By halting the use of the impacted steamers and seeking a refund, consumers can protect themselves from harm and contribute to preventing further injuries. Empower Brands’ efforts to address the recall and provide refunds demonstrate a commitment to consumer safety and accountability in managing product recalls.
