15 million surge protectors recalled

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- The Schneider Electric IT Corporation of West Kingston, R.I., is recalling 15 million surge protectors that can overheat, U.S. product safety regulators said.

In a notice posted Thursday, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said the firm had received 700 reports of surge protectors overheating and melting.

The reports included 55 claims of property damage from smoke and fire, the watchdog agency said.

The recall involves APC 7 Series and APC 8 Series surge protector models made before 2003.

Consumers were advised to look up the serial numbers located on a label on the bottom of the surge protectors. The first two numbers following the first letter or letters in the serial number represents the year the unit was made, the commission said.

Models with the first two numbers 93-99 and 00, 09, or 02 are included in the recall.

APC and the words "Personal, Professional, Performance or Network" are printed on the surge protectors, the agency said.

The surge protectors were imported from China and the Philippines and sold nationwide form January 1993 through December 2002 for $13 to $50.

Consumers were advise to stop using the surge protectors and unplug them. Consumers can contact Schneider Electric for a free replacement.

Consumers can call 888-437-4007 for information.