Thousands of BIG W products are being recalled across Australia due to safety concerns that could result in “serious injury”.
The discount department store issued the recall of its rechargeable battery-operated hand stick bagless vacuum due to the “risk of serious injury and property damage from fire”, reportedly as a result from an electrical issue.
There had been incidents in which fires started by the vacuums had caused property damage, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
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The reason for the recall has been narrowed down to issues with components on the circuit board which “may overheat and catch fire if the vacuum short circuits or the incorrect charger is used”, the ACCC said.
“Consumers should stop using affected vacuum cleaners immediately and return to any Big W store for a full refund,” the consumer watchdog said.
“Phone BIG W if you are unable to return the product or have sold or gifted it to another person.”
The vacuums were sold nationally by BIG W stores and were available for purchase online through bigw.com.au, woolworths.com.au and mydeal.com.au.
They were sold from March 2022 through to October 2023.