500,000 Laminators Recalled Over Fire Hazard; Incidents Reported

3M is recalling some 500,000 units of its Scotch-branded laminators, as they may pose fire hazards. There have been several instances of the items catching fire.

The problem with the recalled Scotch Thermal Laminators is that a safety feature may end up malfunctioning if the laminator overheats, according to the announcement on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website. This may then pose a fire hazard.

As of the recall date, 3M has received nine reports of the laminators catching fire, the CPSC noted. There have been no reports of injuries, though three incidences resulted in "minor property damage."

In Canada, where some 3,000 units of the product are also being recalled, there were no reports of injuries or incidents related to the recalled laminators as of Nov. 4.

Those who are in possession of a recalled product are being advised to stop using it and to unplug it. Instead, they should contact the company to get a refund.

The recall affects the Scotch thermal laminators with model numbers TL1302, TL1302VP, TL1302EF and TL1302KIT, according to the CPSC, though only the model number TL1302 will be noted on the device without the accompanying letters.

"You should look for the model number, TL1302, on sticker on the bottom of the laminator," the company said, adding that the model number may also be found on the packaging.

These items were sold at stores nationwide, including Walmart, Costco and Staples, and they were also sold online. In total, some 516,500 units were sold in the U.S., while 3,560 were sold in Canada.

The company has provided detailed instructions with photos of the steps that customers have to take in order to participate in the recall and get a refund. They include confirming that the laminator in their possession is, indeed, included in the recall and submitting the online recall registration form.

"3M will then email the consumer directly to request additional information and inform consumers of how to properly dispose of the laminator," the CPSC said.

On the other hand, those who don't have the means to take the photo necessary for the refund request or simply need additional information about the recall may also contact the company by phone at 1-800-772-4337.