Black & Decker Recalling 82,000 Chainsaws Over 'Laceration Hazard'

Black & Decker is recalling about 82,000 units of its Craftsman CMECSP610 10-inch Corded Chainsaw with Exxtension Pole because of a laceration hazard.

As the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) explained, the product can "unexpectedly" start even without turning the switch on when the extension cord adaptor is connected upside down. So far, Craftsman has received one report of this particular issue that caused a laceration injury to a customer, the CPSC said.

As such, customers who have purchased the affected product are being advised to stop using it immediately and to contact Craftsman at 1-855-237-6848 for a free repair kit. They can also email the company at recall@sbdinc.com or visit its website for more information.

Affected Product

The recall affects Craftsman Model CMECSP610 10-inch Chainsaw with Exxtension Pole, with date codes 2019-40 to 2020-35 and UPC 885911670210. According to Craftsman, the model number can be found on the label on top of the motor housing while the date code is laser etched on the "underside of the handle base."

"The name 'Craftsman' is on the cutting bar and the motor end cap," the CPSP said. "Only chain saws with date codes of 2019-40 through 2020-35 are included."

Photos of the affected product are available on both the CPSP and Craftsman websites.0

They were sold at Lowe's, other hardware stores nationwide, and online from October 2019 to August 2020.

Customers with questions about the recall, like how to locate the model or serial number, may call the Craftsman Recall Hotline at 1-866-864-2949 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday to Friday.

Chainsaw Safety

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 36,000 people are treated for injuries related to chainsaws annually. This is why it's important to always stay protected when using these tools.

Precautionary measures include wearing proper protective equipment such as a hard hat, heavy work gloves, cut-resistant legwear, hearing protectors and even boots that can cover the ankle. The CDC's advice on chainsaw safety also includes planning properly before commencing any project that requires chainsaw use. This way, one can ensure that there are no bystanders close to the cutting site.

One must also keep both feet on the ground when cutting, avoid using a chainsaw after consuming alcohol and refrain from cutting near a power line.