The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that Lasko Products Inc. has recalled approximately 107,500 portable electric heater units for an electrical problem. Specifically, an electrical connection at the base of the heaters can overheat causing the base to melt and creating a fire hazard. To date, 36 incidences have been reported with no injuries. The heaters are identified as Lasko model 5540 and sold by Sam's Club and other retailers from September 2002 through early 2004. It should be noted that this heater was also sold under the brand name "Air King". Although manufactured by Lasko Products, the heater was assigned the model number 8540. The Air King heater was sold by W.W. Grainger from late 2002 through 2004. A photograph of the heater is shown below. Heaters involved in this recall have a date code that begins with 2. Heaters with date codes that begin with 3, 4, or 5 are not involved. Owners of this heater should stop using the heater immediately and contact Lasko for a free replacement. Lasko can be contacted by calling 800-363-8044 or visit Lasko's website at www.laskoproducts.com
