Wal-mart recalls 210,000 GE toasters due to fire hazard

After receiving 140 reports of fires and sparks coming from two models of General Electric toasters, Wal-Mart has recalled 210,000 of the two-slice and four-slice units. The toasters have also tripped the circuit breaker in a number of consumers’ homes, according to the recall notice issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The recalled toasters have a chrome steel body and a black plastic base and controls. The GE logo is located on the front of the toasters just above the controls. Model numbers 169115 and 169116 are included in this recall. The model number is printed on the bottom of the toaster.

The toasters were sold at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from September 2007 through July 2008 for between $17 and $28.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled toasters and return them to any Wal-Mart for a full refund or replacement toaster. For additional information, contact Wal-Mart at (800) 925-6278 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.walmartstores.com.

With 140 fires on record, we're wondering why it took so long to recall these toasters.

At Consumer Reports, we have some ongoing concerns about the safety of toasters and toaster ovens—and we've written about recalls before.  We've received reports from our readers that some toasters or toaster ovens turn on spontaneously or don't shut off at the end of their toasting cycle.  This can lead to house fires.  If you've had experience with faulty toasters or toaster ovens let us know by posting a comment below or by clicking on "Report a product safety problem"  at the top right side of this page.  You should also report all safety incidents to the CPSC at www.CPSC.gov.