Even if your smoke alarm appears to be in working order, it could be defective.
Kidde United Technologies is recalling 1.5 million smoke alarms in Canada and another 3.6 million alarms in the Unites States.
The recall involves the Kidde NightHawk hardwired talking combo smoke and carbon monoxide alarm and includes the models with battery backup and without. Model numbers include KN-COSM-IBCA and KN-COSM-ICA with manufacture dates between June 1, 2004 and Dec. 31, 2010.
The reason for the recall is that when the alarms reach the end of their lifespan they signal with a chirping noise every 30 seconds. If the power supply (including the battery) is removed from the device and then restored, and the test button is pressed within 10 seconds, the unit will no longer issue the end-of-life chirping signal. Such action may lead owners to believe the unit is still in working order, but at this point the alarm will no longer detect smoke or carbon monoxide.
No injuries have been reported from faulty devices.
For more information contact Kidde by phoning 855-239-0490 or go online at kidde.com and click on “Product Safety Notice.”
katie@goldstreamgazette.com