Fiesta recalls 47,000 Blue Ember grills

Fiesta has recalled 47,000 of its Blue Ember gas grills because improper assembly of the grill poses a fire hazard. Fiesta has received 14 reports of grill fires although no reports of injuries.

The recall, announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, comes two months after we called upon the agency to issue a safety alert after learning of the potential fire hazard caused when the hose that carries gas to the burners is improperly routed behind instead of in front of the heat shield. Instructions that came with the grill were unclear leading some consumers, including an engineer who formerly tested grills for Consumer Reports, to assemble the grill incorrectly.

The recall includes the FG50069 model that we rated a CR Best Buy as well as the FG50057. The exact serial numbers can be found on the recall notice.  The grills were sold at various home centers and retailers across the country from November 2007 through June 2008 for $450.

The CPSC says that consumers should immediately stop using the grills, and inspect the burner hoses to make sure they have been properly assembled. If the hose is behind the heat shield, the grill has been improperly assembled and consumers should contact Fiesta for replacement hoses, assembly instructions, and, if necessary, for assistance in examining the grill.

For additional information, contact Fiesta toll-free at (866) 740-7849 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, visit the firm's Web site at www.fiestagasgrills.com or email the firm at mnorman@fiestagasgrills.com.