Warning: Some Amazon Ring Alarms Are Being Recalled For Starting Fires
UPDATE:
Since the original story about the Ring devices was published, the Ring team has released an official statement.
They state, “The safety of our customers is our top priority. We have and continue to work cooperatively with the CPSC on this issue, and have contacted customers who purchased a Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) to ensure they received the updated user manual and follow the device installation instructions. Customers do not need to return their devices.”
They also stressed three important things to customers:
“Customers do not need to return their devices. They should function as intended when properly installed.”
“We have emailed known customers who own a Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) to ensure they are following the installation instructions properly.”
“We have pursued a voluntary recall in full cooperation with the CPSC and Health Canada with the remedy of an updated instruction manual. Customers can also visit the CPSC or Health Canada websites for more information.”
ORIGINAL STORY:
If you have a Ring alarm system from Amazon, double-check to make sure it is installed correctly. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Ring is recalling over 350,000 video doorbells that can catch fire if not properly installed.
They describe the specific device, saying, “This recall involves Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation), model number 5UM5E5 smart doorbell cameras. The video doorbells have a blue ring at the front and come in two colors: “satin nickel” (black and silver) and “venetian bronze” (black and bronze).”
“They were sold with a mounting bracket and a USB charging cable. The two-way audio doorbell can be hardwired or battery-powered and supports night vision. The Ring logo is printed on the bottom front of the doorbell and the model and S/N are on a label on the back of the doorbell and the outer packaging.”
They explain that this specific device has received 85 incident reports of incorrect doorbell screws installed. 23 of those 85 resulted in minor property damage, and eight have had reports of burns.
They add that if you install the device correctly with the proper screws, there is no risk to consumers or potential hazards present. Detailed installation instructions are on the Ring website.
This specific Ring device is sold through Amazon and Ring, and also various electronics and home goods stores nationwide. They were sold from June through October 2020 and retailed for $100.
To determine if your Ring device matches this description, you can enter your serial number into this Ring website.