Grenfell tragedy link to fridge freezer

South Tyneside Trading Standards service is urging owners of Hotpoint fridge freezers to check their model numbers after one such appliance was linked to the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in London.

Residents who believe they own a Hotpoint fridge freezer model FF175BP (white) or FF175BG (graphite), should call the manufacturer's freephone hotline on 0800 316 3826 or visit hotpoint service to register their details for further updates. Details of how to locate the model and serial number of an appliance can be found on the website.

The models in question, which were manufactured between 2006 and 2009, are not currently the subject of a product recall, but if a customer registers their details with the manufacturer this will help speed up the process in the event a product recall is issued in future.

Hotpoint is expected to give customers further updates about what further action it will take, and customers are advised to follow standard safety advice by not overloading plugs, ensuring sockets are not damaged, and checking cables and leads are in good condition.

The Government website on product recalls, which will be updated should further action on the product be necessary, can be found at www.gov.uk/productrecall.

Anyone with concerns about product safety can also call the Citizens Advice consumer service helpline on 0808 2231133, or the Government helpline on 0300 123 1016.