Universal Security Instruments Recalls About 8,000 Smoke & CO Detectors Due to Failure to Alarm at Dangerous CO Levels
One of the two recalled models, the MPC122S, previously received a CR Don’t Buy: Performance Problem designation because of issues detecting carbon monoxide
Universal Security Instruments, which also uses the brand name USI Electric, has recalled about 8,000 combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, which can fail to alarm in the presence of dangerous CO levels. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that at high levels can lead to CO poisoning and death.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice, no injuries or incidents have been reported. The recall covers two detector models, the MPC322S and the MPC122S, with specific manufacturing date codes.
Details of the USI Smoke & CO Detector Recall
The recall: This recall includes units of the MPC322S detector with manufacturing date code 2017JUN09 and the MPC122S detector with manufacturing date code 2017JUN02. The front of the alarms features either the Universal Security Instruments or USI Electric brand name. You can find more information about locating the model numbers and date codes in the CPSC recall notice.
The risk: These detectors can fail to alert you to dangerous carbon monoxide levels, which can lead to CO poisoning and death.
Incidents/injuries: None reported.
How many: About 8,000.
Where and when sold: These detectors were sold nationwide at electrical distributors and online at Walmart.com and other online retailers. They were sold between June 2017 and December 2019 for $50 to $80.
The remedy: Universal Security Instruments is providing free replacement alarms. Consumers with recalled units should contact the company immediately for replacement units, but keep using the recalled alarms until they receive the replacements.
Contact information: For more information, contact Universal Security Instruments at 877-220-0046 or go to the company’s recall information page.
Report a hazardous product: Call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 or go to SaferProducts.gov.
