Health Canada warns of certain ‘exploding’ natural gas and propane fireplaces

Health Canada is warning Canadians to “immediately stop” using certain natural gas and propane fireplaces made by Security Fireplace in the 1990s due to a risk of exploding glass.

There have been two reported incidents involving these fireplaces due to delayed ignition. The relief dampers on these products may not work, which could lead to excess gas being ignited when lighting the fireplace. This could cause the glass front to explode into people’s living space, posing a serious risk to the safety of Canadians.

What you should do:

Consumers should immediately stop using these fireplaces.

Consumers are being advised to stop using natural gas and propane fireplaces manufactured by Security Fireplaces between 1990 and 1994-95. Affected models are SRGH36, SBGH36, DV73 and DV71 Series. (The DV73 and DV71 series were marketed under the trade name Oliver Macleod.) All models bear a CGA and AGA certification mark.

Any affected fireplaces currently in use should have the fuel supply disconnected immediately. The manufacturer is no longer in business and there is no retrofit kit available. Contact a licensed gas technician for disconnection and disposal.

What Health Canada is doing:

Health Canada is warning consumers to stop using these fireplaces immediately, as there is a risk of the glass exploding, which poses a serious safety risk. Health Canada is issuing a warning to consumers, not a recall notice, because Security Fireplace is no longer in business.

The Government of Canada is committed to helping protect Canadians from potentially dangerous consumer products. Health Canada regularly tests consumer products on the Canadian market and will continue to monitor products to help keep consumers safe.

Agencies/Canadajournal