Recalls: A smoke alarm you can't trust

If you've got a Kidde dual sensor smoke alarm, check the model number, because it might not work when you need it to.

Walter Kidde Portable Equipment Inc. is recalling the Kidde Model PI2000 Dual Sensor Smoke Alarms, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said because they could fail to warn of a fire. About 94,000 units are involved in the recall.

The CPSC said the alarms can be damaged by electrostatic discharge. The model being recalled has two buttons: one labeled "HUSH" and the other "PUSH AND HOLD TO TEST WEEKLY." They are on the front of the unit.

Only those with date codes from Aug. 1, 2008 through May 4, 2009 are subject to the recall. The model number and manufacture date are on the rear of the alarms. The Chinese-made alarms were sold nationwide from August through May for $30 to $40.

Having both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarm sensors is ideal since one is more sensitive to flames and the other to smoke. To resolve the problem, Kidde will replace the recalled alarms for free.

Call Kidde at (877) 524-2086 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time or go to the company's site.