Samsung is recalling 1 million stoves to reduce the risk of pets accidentally causing a fire in your home

Samsung is recalling knobs on some of its electric stoves, following reports that pets or people bumping into them can inadvertently start fires. Recent incidents include a Colorado dog that ignited a house fire by jumping on the stove and activating the knobs, as shown in home security footage.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that about 1.1 million units are affected by this recall. Samsung will provide free knob locks or covers for certain slide-in electric ranges with front-mounted knobs sold between 2013 and 2024.

Samsung’s press release states, “This recall is prompted by concerns that front-mounted range knobs can be unintentionally activated through accidental contact by people or pets, which poses a fire hazard if flammable items are left on top of the range.”

The CPSC is investigating cases where stoves have caused fires due to accidental activation by pets or humans. At a June committee meeting, the CPSC highlighted that both gas and electric ranges are affected and reported incidents of severe property damage, injuries, and even deaths linked to these range knobs.

Since 2013, Samsung has received over 300 reports of accidental knob activation by pets or people, resulting in approximately 250 fires, 18 of which caused significant property damage. There have been 40 injury reports, with eight requiring medical treatment, and seven fires that resulted in pet fatalities.

While the CPSC cannot mandate recalls, companies often voluntarily recall products deemed unsafe. Affected models can be identified on the CPSC website.

For safety, Samsung advises keeping children and pets away from stove knobs and ensuring that knobs are turned off after cooking. Additionally, do not place or leave items on the stove when it’s not in use. The CPSC also recommends using safety knobs or covers for those with young children or pets.

Until the knob locks or covers are received, Samsung suggests continuing to use the stoves with caution, emphasizing the importance of keeping children and pets away from the knobs. To obtain free knob locks or covers, customers can visit Samsung’s website, call 1-833-775-0120 (Monday through Friday, 9 am to 8 pm ET), or email rangesupport@sea.samsung.com.

Samsung’s latest models feature improved knob safety mechanisms, including a two-step activation system and Wi-Fi capabilities that alert owners when burners are activated.