The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with Menards of Eau Claire, Wis., announced a voluntary recall of
MasterForce 3.6-volt Cordless Screwdrivers. The battery can overheat and ignite
during charging, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. There is no
protective device on the lithium battery to prevent overheating.
Menards and the CPSC have
received three reports of fires. One consumer suffered burns to the hand, and
another experienced temporary hearing loss.
The recalled cordless
screwdrivers are green and gray in color. “MASTERFORCE” is printed on the top
of the tool. “LITHIUM-ION TECHNOLOGY” and “241-0717” are printed on the handle.
The screwdrivers were manufactured in China by the Great Star Industry Co., and
sold at Menards stores from April 2007 through May 2008 for about $30.
Consumers should immediately
stop using the screwdrivers and return them to any Menards store for a free
replacement or refund.
For additional information,
call toll-free at 866/458-2472 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through
Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site atwww.menards.com.
