OFM warns of Hazardous Refrigerators

Toronto, July 15, 2005 – The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) is urging Ontarians to check the model numbers of their refrigerators after a notice was issued by the manufacturer that certain models must be repaired. The notice applies to LG and Kenmore Elite Trio Three-Door refrigerators.

According to a news release from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there is a problem with a component in the condenser fan motor that can short circuit and overheat, posing a potential fire hazard to consumers. The Office of the Fire Marshal is currently investigating several reports of fires that may have been caused by these refrigerators.

Consumers with these refrigerators are being asked to promptly contact LG or Sears for a free in-home repair. The LG recall hotline number for Canadian consumers is 1-866-595-4387. Enquiries regarding Kenmore Elite refrigerators can be directed to Sears at 1-888-473-2772.

For more information on the serial numbers of the refrigerators, visit the CPSC website at: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml05/05213.html.

For the news release issued by LG visit: http://ca.lge.com/en/ir/html/ABboards.do?action=read&group_code=AB&list_code=PRE_MENU&seq=5211&page=1&target=pressreleases_read.jsp

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For more information, contact:
Chris Slosser, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3120
Bev Gilbert, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3178