Latest Updates
On October 18, 2016, Sherwood Marketing, owner of the 3 Squares brand, LLC of San Diego, California announced a voluntary recall of 3 Squares-branded Tim3 Machin3 and Mini Tim3 Machin3 rice and slow cookers in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) [1]. The CPSC subsequently confirmed that no remedy is available because Sherwood Marketing lacks the financial resources to fund the recall. The cookers were manufactured in China and imported by Sherwood Marketing.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall covers 3 Squares-branded Tim3 Machin3 and Mini Tim3 Machin3 rice and slow cookers with fixed power cords, in stainless steel with black molded plastic construction, measuring approximately 11 inches in diameter and 12 inches tall. The 3Squares logo is printed on the front of the control panel. The following models are included in the recall:
- TIM3 MACHIN3 — Model 3RC-9010S (20-cup/4-quart)
- TIM3 MACHIN3 — Model 3RC-3020S (20-cup/4-quart)
- MINI TIM3 MACHIN3 — Model 3RC-3434 (8-cup/1.7-quart)
- TIM3 MACHIN3 TWO — Model 3RC-5020 (20-cup)
All model numbers begin with “3RC” and end in 3010S, 3020S, 3434, 5020, or 9010S — printed on a label on the side of the product. The recalled cookers were sold at home, hardware, mass merchandiser, and department stores nationwide, and online at Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, Costco, Get3Squares, Home Depot, Kohl’s, Target, Wayfair, and other websites from December 2015 through July 2016 for between $30 and $70 depending on model and capacity.
What Is the Hazard?
The rice and slow cookers’ improperly installed wiring can cause electrical shorting inside the unit, posing fire and electric shock hazards. An electrical fault in a kitchen appliance that sits on countertops and is often left unattended for hours during cooking cycles can cause a fire to spread significantly before it is detected.
Incidents and Injuries
Sherwood Marketing received three incident reports in connection with the recalled cookers, including a unit that sparked when turned on and a unit that turned itself on without user input. One electric shock injury was reported.
No Remedy Available — What That Means for Consumers
Unlike most product recalls where the manufacturer provides a refund or free replacement, no remedy is available from Sherwood Marketing because the company does not have the financial resources to fund one. The CPSC has instructed consumers to immediately stop using the recalled cookers and to destroy and discard them.
The absence of a company remedy does not necessarily eliminate legal options. Retailers and online platforms that sold the recalled product — including Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot, Kohl’s, Target, Costco, Wayfair, and Bed Bath & Beyond — may face product liability exposure for selling a product the CPSC has determined poses fire and electric shock hazards. Consumers who were injured should consult an attorney about what claims may still be available and whether filing deadlines apply given the 2016 recall date.
Can I File a Lawsuit?
Consumers who suffered fire damage, property loss, or electric shock injuries from a recalled 3 Squares Tim3 Machin3 or Mini Tim3 Machin3 cooker may have legal options against the retailers that sold the product. Contact an attorney promptly to have your case evaluated and to discuss applicable filing deadlines.
References
1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2017/Sherwood-Marketing-Recalls-3-Squares-Rice-and-Slow-Cookers