Safety notice issued for outdoor lanterns sold in Argos Ireland over “risk of electrocution”

Be aware.

A product safety information notice has been issued for outdoor lanterns sold in Argos Ireland stores due to the "risk of electrocution". On Friday, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) posted a statement alerting the public to a safety issue identified with certain Aaron Outdoor PIR Lanterns (pictured below) which were available in Argos stores. [caption id="attachment_730308" align="alignnone" width="825"] Main image via CCPC[/caption] "There is an issue with the installation instructions with the outdoor lanterns, which instructed that the lanterns are not required to be earthed. This product must be earthed," the CCPC says. "If fitted according to the instructions, the products are unsafe and there is a risk of electrocution." The brand of the affected products is Zinc and the number of the models are 817/1395 and 817/9531. For consumers who purchased the product, the CCPC says that if you followed the instructions or are unsure whether your lantern is earthed, do not attempt to open the lantern to check. Instead, switch the lantern off and do not use it. People are urged to contact by email lantern@0800repair.com and they will arrange to check the installation of the lantern and earth it if required at a time and date that is convenient. "In the unlikely event the engineer is unable to make the lantern safe, he will offer to uninstall the lantern," the CCPC says. "You can then return the lantern to an Argos store for a full refund of €24. You will not require a receipt." Customers are asked to dispose of the original, incorrect instructions. A new set of correct instructions can be found here. For more information, visit the CCPC's website at this link. Images via CCPC