flickr photo courtesy of dimodi

As anyone who is interested in the care of saltwater or freshwater fish can tell you, a fish tank set up can range from the most simple, to more elaborate, all depending on the number of, and type of fish that you have. There are several functional accessories available to help support a stable aquatic environment, like air pumps and stones, lighting accessories, water filters, substrates, water heaters and even water chillers.

A Cincinnati pet supply company has issued a voluntary recall on one of their aquarium accessories that could cause an injury or even a fire.

A wiring problem can cause the Marineland Stealth and Stealth Pro aquarium heaters to overheat or break during normal use, damaging the aquarium and posing fire and laceration hazards. Overheating can cause the heater to shatter or the aquarium glass to break — in the latter case, 45 cases were reported, with 38 reports of property damage from fires starting due to overheating of the product.

United Pet Group, who produces the heaters, along with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, announced late last week that a voluntary recall was issued for the product.

The recall affects about 1.2 million units.

One report by a consumer detailed an eye injury suffered when the heater forcefully broke in the consumer's hands.

The heaters are black plastic tubes and have a temperature adjustment knob at the top. The model name "Stealth" appears in white letters or "Stealth Pro" in red letters on the heater's side. The model number and wattage rating are printed below the model name. Stealth Pro heaters were also sold as part of aquarium starter kits.

Consumers can contact the company at 800-338-4896 or visit the website for additional information and are urged to immediately stop using the heaters and contact United Pet Group for a free replacement heater or a full refund.

The heaters were sold in pet stores nationwide and online from January 2004 through February 2011, and range in wattages from 25 to 300.

Read the press release by clicking here.

Lorrie Shaw is lead pets blogger for AnnArbor.com and owner of Professional Pet Sitting. Shoot her an email or contact her at 734-904-7279.