Gas refrigerator models involved in recall

CLEVELAND – The Servel gas refrigerator, manufactured between 1933 and 1957, is involved in a recall sponsored by the Servel Corrective Action Committee.

The refrigerators are deemed to be dangerous, as they can produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that has no odor and cannot be detected without a monitor.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said there have been at least 22 carbon monoxide deaths and 55 injuries nationwide during the past 20 years involving these old Servel gas refrigerators.

The SCAC will send out a rebate package that will provide the consumer with instructions for dismantling and disposal. A rebate of $100 is offered to consumers who properly dispose of their old Servels. Reasonable disposal costs for dump fees or landfills also are offered.

The SCAC recommends to consumers who keep their old Servels to move them to an outdoor shelter, shed or garage not connected to a house or camp, and also have them serviced by a qualified technician. SCAC also recommends maintaining limited access to an in-use refrigerator, such as locking a shed in which it is kept.

When discarding any refrigerator, the door must be removed and the hinges destroyed so children won’t get trapped inside while playing.

The number to call for a rebate kit is 1-800-782-7431.