Hamilton Beach toaster is recalled due to fire hazard

Dec. 15, 2011—Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Hamilton Beach, recalled Hamilton Beach classic chrome two-slice toasters that have model number 22602.

When the toaster is plugged into an outlet for the first time, the heating element can be energized even though the toast lifter is in the up or off position. This can pose a fire hazard if the toaster is near a flammable item. Hamilton Beach has received five reports of toasters being energized when they are plugged into an outlet. No injury or property damage has been reported.

The Hamilton Beach recall involves model 22602 toasters. The model number is printed on the bottom of the toaster. The toaster has a chrome steel exterior, a front control panel that has a rotary toast-shade selector and function buttons that are arranged in an arc, a front removable crumb tray, and “Hamilton Beach” printed below the control panel.

Mass merchandisers and department, grocery and home-center stores nationwide sold this product from August 2011 through November 2011. Some toasters were sent to consumers as replacements for model 22600 toasters, which Hamilton Beach recalled in June 2011.

Consumers should stop using the recalled toaster immediately and contact the Hamilton Beach to receive instructions on how to obtain a free replacement toaster.

For more information, contact Hamilton Beach at 800/576-6600 or go to hamiltonbeach.com.