The pressure relief valve on one of the tanks activated, resulting in a loud noise that was initially described as an explosion, but the tanks did not explode. Fortunately, the incident ended quickly without victims or injuries, as the fire was noticed and reported in an incipient stage by the Police Officer on patrol.

This was a case of external ignition factor, but there are many reported cases when fire is started as a result of manufacturing flaws. Thus, although confined within manufacturing standard limitations, there are still reported cases of home accidents occurring because of manufacturing problems.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission receives reports of such accidents or malfunction cases that might endanger the user, analyzes the situation and may decide to recall dangerous products. These are some examples of recalled grills and their producers:

Jenn-Air Downdraft Gas Cooktops produced by Maytag Corp., of Newton, Iowa.
November 18: 1,170 units were recalled.
Cause: switches are located too close to the gas tubing that leads to the grill burner. The produced electrical arch represents a fire hazard.
Reports: 4 reports - fire catching during use as a result of a gas leak, no injuries.

Five-burner Vermont Castings barbeque grills produced by CFM Corporation, Canada.
November 10: 12,500 units were recalled.
Cause: gas leak and fire hazard.
Reports: 38 reports - gas leaks, but no injuries or property damage.

Beefmaster Explorer Outdoor Gas Grill produced by Nexgrill Industries, Inc., of Walnut, Los Angeles County.
October 21: 10,000 units were recalled.
Cause: when adjusting the gas pressure regulator the label on the valve can become positioned so consumers cannot see what it indicates, thus it could be left on by mistake.
Reports: 2 reports – gas leaks but no injuries or property damage.
And these are only few of the dangerous products reported lately. A little too many, aren't they? So, how come that so many inappropriately manufactured products get to reach the stores and finally the consumers?

About The Author

The Advice Diva has written three self-help guides on relationships and dating which can be found at http://www.advicediva.com. She also hosts an online advice column which is completely free of charge. The Diva does not claim to be an expert in any field. However, she has the ability to understand relationhips through past experience and her incredible insight. Aside from her website, the Diva also publishes monthly articles in two magazines and several notable websites.

thediva@advicediva.com