Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Alarm Recall: Check If Your Detectors Are Affected

A company is recalling its 2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms sold across the U.S. because of an issue that may pose poisoning risks.

The problem with Universal Security Instruments' 2-in-1 Photoelectric Smoke & Fire+Carbon Monoxide Alarms is that they may "fail to alert" the user about hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, the company announced on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website.

Called the "invisible killer," carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning or even death. Everyone is at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, with 400 Americans dying each year of unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning that's not linked to fires, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Over 20,000 people also visit the emergency room, while more than 4,000 end up being hospitalized every year.

No injuries related to the recalled products have been reported, but there have been two cases wherein the units failed to alarm the users of the presence of carbon monoxide "within the specified time requirement." Those who have an affected product should contact Universal Security Instruments "immediately" to get a free replacement.

The recall affects Models MPC322S with a manufacture date of 2017JUN09 and MPC122S with a manufacture date of 2017JUN02. They were sold through distributors nationwide and also online through the Walmart site, as well as other websites from June 2017 to December 2019.

"Only alarms with specific manufacturer's date codes are affected," the company noted.

Customers can check the company website to see if their smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is part of the recall. Those whose alarms are wired directly to the house wiring are being advised to turn the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box first before removing the alarm from the bracket.

"The green LED will now be off. Do not proceed with the product inspection if the green LED is on," the company cautioned.

Those whose alarms are not included in the recall don't have to take any further action, and the company has also provided instructions on how to reattach and test the unit. People with the affected products can keep using the product until the replacement alarms are installed.

"Universal Security encourages everyone to test their alarms weekly, by pressing the test button, and to clean their alarms monthly, to ensure proper operation," the company said.