Big Lots Recalls Tabletop Torches Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

Big Lots large tabletop torch

Citronella Tabletop Torches

Recall Date: August 8th, 2013
Type: Torches
Units: About 30,000
Hazards: Once lit, the glass citronella table torches can flare up and emit burning lamp oil onto consumers and property, posing fire and burn hazards.
Remedies: Refund
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled torches and return them to any Big Lots store for a full refund.

Description

This recall involves large and small round tabletop torches that have a wick and burn liquid citronella fuel. The large torches have a steel fuel container covered in multi-colored glass in a mosaic pattern. The large torch measures about 10 inches in diameter, 5 inches high, and weighs about 2 ½ pounds. The small torches have multi-colored glass fuel container with a metal and wire stand. They measure about 5 inches in diameter, 5½ inches high and weigh about one pound. "Table Top Torch distributed by Big Lots, Inc." and item #DC12-21111 (large torch) or Item #DC10-20160 (small torch) is printed on a yellow label on the bottom of the large torch and on a hang tag on the small torch.

Images:

Big Lots large tabletop torch

Label on bottom of Big Lots large tabletop torch

Big Lots small tabletop torch

Hang tag on Big Lots small tabletop torch

Consumer Contact:

Big Lots toll-free at (866) 244-5687 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s website at www.biglots.com and click on “Recalls” at the bottom for more information.

Injuries:

Big Lots has received 20 reports of liquid fuel erupting from the torches with high flames, including two serious injuries with second and third degree burns and seven with minor burns. One of the serious burn injuries involved burns to the legs and abdomen and a second victim received burns all over the body while attempting to extinguish the flames. All of the incidents involved property damage.