Dealing with a product facing a recall might seem like a hassle, but the recall process is key to keeping everyday products safe.
When something you buy turns out to be dangerous — whether it’s a food item, a cooler or a car part — the manufacturer will often recall it to prevent accidents or injuries.
In the U.S., the agency behind most of these safety alerts is the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC tracks reports of injuries and product malfunctions, then works with companies to remove risky items from stores and homes.
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Some recalls are voluntary (the company steps up), while others are mandatory (the government steps in). Either way, recalls help make sure a small problem doesn’t turn into a widespread danger.
One of the latest recalls to make headlines is related to a product that many probably have lots of in our homes: water bottles.
And now, with intense heat plaguing spreading across the country, there’s a good chance you’re keeping water bottles close by.
Walmart just issued a massive recall of a popular product.
Image source: Sundry Photography/Getty Images
Walmart recalls 850,000 water bottles after injury reports
Walmart (WMT) just announced a voluntary recall of about 850,000 Ozark Trail 64-ounce stainless steel water bottles after several reports of serious injuries.
The problem? The bottle’s cap can unexpectedly shoot off when opened. The danger is especially high if the bottle contains a perishable drink like a protein shake, juice, milk, or a carbonated beverage.
Pressure can build up inside the bottle if it contains food or certain drinks and is tightly sealed, according to the CPSC.
Related: Trader Joe’s shares recall on popular snack that can make you sick
The pressure can cause the lid to forcefully eject.
So far, there have been three reported injuries, including two cases of permanent vision loss after the bottle caps hit users in the face.
Here’s what to look for:
- Brand: Ozark Trail
- Size: 64 ounces
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Silver body with a black screw-on cap
- Sold exclusively at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com
- Model number: 83-462, found only on the original packaging
The bottles have been sold nationwide since April 2023, priced at around $15. If you bought a large silver Ozark Trail bottle at Walmart recently, there’s a good chance it could be part of this recall.
What to do if you own a recalled Walmart water bottle
If you have one of these water bottles at home, here’s what to do next:
- Stop using it immediately. Don’t take the risk — even if you haven’t had an issue with it yet or use it just for water.
- Double-check the details. If your bottle matches the size, color, and brand listed above (especially if you purchased it in the past year), it’s likely part of the recall.
- Return it to Walmart for a refund. You don’t need a receipt. Just bring the bottle to your nearest Walmart store or contact Walmart’s customer service at 1-800-925-6278.
- Spread the word. If you know someone else who might own one of these bottles, let them know about the recall so they can stay safe, too.
Related: Finger amputations prompt massive recall from iconic cooler brand
Walmart is working with the CPSC to make sure customers are alerted quickly and have an easy way to return the product. Safety is the top priority, especially when a common product like a water bottle ends up causing real harm.
If you’ve bought reusable bottles lately for your family or workouts, this recall is a good reminder to keep an eye on safety notices.
The Ozark Trail water bottle recall is a serious one, with real injuries already reported.
For more details and updates on this recall, visit cpsc.gov or walmart.com.
Related: Popular appliance sold at Costco recalled for dangerous glitch