"jimmy" wrote in message
...
I recently had a conversation with an insurance adjuster who told me one
of the causes of fires in a home are these box fans...do you have any info
regarding this??


Anything with a motor is a potential fire hazard. These are generally
cheaply made, but I've not heard of any particular hazard from them. Did he
give any details as to why? I've used them for years and never had a
problem, nor have I hear of any others. But . . . . I did a quick search
and found this
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06085.html
Name of Product: Lasko, General Electric, Galaxy, and Air King Brand Box and
Pivoting Floor Fans

Units: About 5.6 million

Manufacturer: Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.

Hazard: An electrical failure in the motor can pose a fire hazard to
consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Lasko has received 42 reports of fires possibly
associated with motor failures, with seven reports of injuries, including
burns and smoke inhalation. At least eight of the reported fires resulted in
extensive property damage.

Description: This recall involves various models of Lasko, Galaxy, Air King
and General Electric fans manufactured between January 1999 and July 2001,
and sold through February 2004. Styles and model numbers of recalled fans,
which are either stamped or on a label on the bottom of the fans, are listed
below: