The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $800 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years. I saw were recently A.O. Smith recalls a gas water heater due to carbon monoxcide Hazards.

Name of Product: Natural and Propane Gas Water Heaters

Units: About 1,500

Manufacturer: A.O. Smith Water Products Co., of Ashland City, Tenn.

Hazard: The water heater’s flue gas temperatures can exceed safe limits and produce excessive temperatures in the venting unit, posing a fire hazard. Also, the water heater’s exhaust can leak into the surrounding room, posing a carbon monoxide hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves 75 gallon natural and propane gas water heaters. “A.O. Smith” or “State” is printed on the side of the unit. A.O. Smith and State model and serial numbers included in this recall are listed in the chart below. Model and serial numbers are printed on the water heater’s rating plate.

Sold by: Independent contractors and plumbers nationwide from November 2007 through January 2008 for between $1,000 and $2,500.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled water heater and contact A.O. Smith to arrange for a free repair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact A.O. Smith toll-free at (866) 880-4661 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT, or visit  A.O.Smith