The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Hamilton Beach Brands Inc., has announced a voluntary recall of about 482,000 Hamilton Beach and Proctor-Silex toasters, due to the fact that the toasters can remain energized after popping up. This poses a fire hazard if a consumer covers or places a flammable object near the toaster that may ignite while the toaster is still "on". Although no injuries or fires have been reported, Hamilton Beach has received at least 63 reports of toasters that have remained energized, or "on", even though the lever was in the "up" position.

Manufactured in China and sold at mass merchandisers, department stores, grocery stores, home center stores, and other retail stores nationwide, as well as various online retailers from August 2007 through February 2008 for between $13 and $40, this recall is for 17 different models of toasters. Styles range from black, red, chrome, white, and brushed chrome, with 2 or 4 slice openings. Check the bottom of your Hamilton Beach or Proctor-Silex toaster for the model number and series code.

Stop using the recalled toaster immediately and contact Hamilton Beach at (800) 574-6800 for instructions to receive a free replacement toaster. If you have a Hamilton Beach toaster, you may also contact them at www.hamiltonbeach.com. If you have a Proctor-Silex toaster, you may contact them at www.proctorsilex.com.