1.7 Million Cordless Drills Recalled due to Fire and Burn Hazards

Harbor Freight Tools is recalling 1.7 million cordless drills because an internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the “on” position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards. The company has received 25 reports of the drill switch overheating, including six reports of burns to the hands and fingers, and five reports of minor property damage.

The recall includes Drill Master 18-volt cordless drills with item number 68239 and item number 68287. They were sold at Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide, Harbor Freight Tools catalog, and online at www.harborfreight.com between May 2011 and September 2015 for about $35 or $46, depending on the item. The drills are black with a red switch and they were sold with an 18 volt rechargeable battery pack. Item number 68239 was sold individually and item number 68287 was sold as part of a kit, which included a flashlight, which is not included in the recall. The item number is located on a black label on the right side of the drill, just beneath the serial number.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drills and return the unit to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a replacement drill.

Source: CPSC