RECALL – HoMedics Heating Pads Upgraded to Class 1

HoMedics® received complaints of user burns and fires to bedding, clothing and houses that were started by the heating pads. The FDA learned about these complaints during an FDA inspection of HoMedics®. The inspection also revealed quality system deficiencies related to design controls, complaint handling, and corrective and preventative actions. Complaints were reviewed during an FDA inspection and the firm elected to recall products after discussions with the FDA.

HoMedics® received eight reports of minor or first degree burns associated with the use of the heating pads and five additional reports of minor or first degree burns possibly related to the use of the heating pads as well as reports of property damage. If burned, the consumer should seek medical attention if appropriate.

Approximately 292,108 heating pads are being recalled which were produced in 2001 and shipped to retailers in 2001 and 2002. These heating pads were sold in the United States to Walgreens as well as to drug stores, discount stores and department stores.

Consumers whom have any of these specific heating pads should discontinue the use of the product immediately and return it to the retailer of purchase for a full refund. HoMedics® is currently contacting the retailers of these heating pads to communicate return instructions. Further information can be obtained by going to the company’s press release at: For more information about this recall, please see the company’s press release at: http://www.homedics.com/MediaCenter/PressRelease.aspx?id=90&cat=prp

Class I recalls are the most serious type of recall and involve situations in which there is a reasonable probability that, should this particular malfunction occur, use of the affected product may cause serious injury or death if the problem is not corrected.

More information is available athttp://www.fda.gov/cdrh/recalls/recall-020907.html