Harbor Freight Tools recalls cordless drill for fire, burn hazard

The U.S. Consumer Producer Safety Commission is working with Harbor Freight Tools of Camarillo, Calif., to recall some cordless drills. Customers are warned to stop using them immediately because of possible fire and burn hazards. 

The recall affects about 108,000 drills.  They were sold at Harbor Freight stores nationwide from April, 2009 through May, 2012.  

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This recall affects Harbor Freight Tools Cordless Drills, model number 96526. The drills are blue and black and have a black trigger switch. They have a 19.2v rechargeable battery pack. The drill's model number is located on a yellow label on the left side of the drill. "Made in China" appears in black and red lettering on a yellow warning sticker located on the right side of the unit. 

The black trigger switch on the 19.2v cordless drill can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. Harbor Freight Tools says it has received  one report of a drill overheating and burning through the handle of the unit, which resulted in a consumer receiving a minor injury. 

Recall information

Hazard: The black trigger switch on the 19.2v cordless drill can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Harbor Freight Tools has received one report of a drill overheating and burning through the handle of the unit, which resulted in a consumer receiving a minor injury.

Description: This recall involves Harbor Freight Tools Cordless Drills, model number 96526. The drills are blue and black and have a black trigger switch. They have a 19.2v rechargeable battery pack. The drill's model number is located on a yellow label on the left side of the drill. "Made in China" appears in black and red lettering on a yellow warning sticker located on the right side of the unit.

Sold at: Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide, via catalog and online at www.harborfreight.com from April, 2008 through May 2012 for between $27 and $30.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled drill immediately, remove the rechargeable battery and contact Harbor Freight Tools to receive a free replacement drill.

Consumer Contact: Harbor Freight Tools; toll-free at (800) 444-3353, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or www.harborfreight.com and click on Recall Safety Information under Customer Service for more information. Consumers can also email the firm at recalls@harborfreight.com