Stanley Black & Decker Recalls DeWALT Battery Walk-Behind Mowers Due to Laceration Hazard

What was recalled

In mid-August 2024, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving specific models of DeWALT battery-powered walk-behind lawn mowers manufactured by Stanley Black & Decker. This action affects two distinct categories of equipment: the DeWALT Battery 21-inch Push mowers and the DeWALT Battery 21-inch Self-Propelled mowers. The urgency of this recall stems from a critical safety defect that can occur under specific environmental conditions, necessitating immediate attention from owners of these particular machines to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.

The recall targets four specific model numbers across these two product lines. For the push mower category, the affected models are the DCMWP234U2 and the DCMWP600X2. For the self-propelled category, which offers additional assistance for pushing the mower uphill or over rough terrain, the affected models are the DCMWSP256U2 and the DCMWSP650Y2. These mowers are easily identifiable by their distinctive DeWALT branding, featuring black, gray, and yellow color schemes with the brand name printed in yellow on either the front or side of the unit.

To determine if your specific mower is part of this recall, you must check the date code located on the left side of the mower, just above the left rear wheel. This code is laser-printed in yellow and follows a specific format: 20XX YY-58. In this code, "20XX" represents the year of manufacture, "YY" represents the week, and "58" is the factory code. The recall applies only to mowers manufactured between week 32 of 2023 and week 13 of 2024. Specifically, any mower with a date code ranging from 2023 32-58 through 2024 13-58 is included in this recall. It is important to note that mowers manufactured after March 2024 (date codes starting with 2024 14-58 or later) are not affected by this safety issue and do not need to be returned for repair.

While the exact total number of units sold globally is not specified in the initial CPSC report, the scope of the recall is significant given the popularity of DeWALT’s battery-powered tool ecosystem. These mowers were sold at major retailers across the United States and its territories. If you purchased one of these models during the dates mentioned above, it is crucial to verify your model number and date code immediately. The potential for water intrusion into the handle support while the battery is installed creates a serious risk that requires prompt resolution through DeWALT’s authorized service network.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at the specific mechanical failure that DeWALT identified. The core issue lies in the mower’s handle support system, which houses critical electrical components that control the motor and safety switches. Under normal conditions, this area is designed to keep water out. However, if water manages to seep into the handle support while a battery is still installed, it can create an unintended electrical path. This moisture intrusion causes a short circuit or signal error within the control module, effectively confusing the mower’s internal logic.

This confusion leads to two distinct and dangerous scenarios. First, the mower may fail to shut off when you release the bail handle. Normally, the bail handle acts as a safety dead-man switch: you must hold it down for the blade to spin, and releasing it should immediately cut power. When water interferes with this mechanism, that automatic shutdown fails. The blades continue to rotate even though your hand is no longer on the handle, leaving you without the primary physical control over the tool.

The second scenario is equally alarming: the mower may start unexpectedly without a key being inserted or a specific activation sequence. This means the machine could engage its powerful cutting motor at any moment, potentially while you are stepping back, adjusting the height, or simply standing nearby. For walk-behind mowers, which rely on precise hand-eye coordination and physical proximity to the blade deck, losing control of the ignition or shutdown functions transforms a routine gardening task into a high-risk situation.

The potential for harm is direct and severe. Lacerations are the primary injury risk associated with these failures. Because DeWALT mowers use sharp, high-speed rotating blades, any contact between exposed skin or clothing and the deck while the motor is running can result in significant cuts. The fact that one reported incident resulted in a finger laceration highlights how quickly a malfunction can lead to physical injury. Even if the mower starts unexpectedly rather than failing to stop, the sudden engagement of the blade near your feet or hands leaves little time to react, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact.

It is important to note that this is not a theoretical risk based on speculation. DeWALT has received ten reports of mowers failing to shut off when the bail handle was released, confirming that the water intrusion issue is real and recurring. Additionally, there is one confirmed report of a mower starting without a key, which resulted in a cut that, while requiring no medical attention, serves as a clear warning sign. These incidents demonstrate that the electrical fault is not just a minor glitch but a genuine safety threat that compromises the fundamental safety features designed to protect users.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for this specific recall consists of homeowners and property maintenance professionals who own the affected 2024 model year DeWALT Battery-powered walk-behind mowers. Specifically, individuals possessing the DeWALT Battery 21" Push models (model numbers DCMWP234U2 and DCMWP600X2) or the DeWALT Battery 21" Self-Propelled models (model numbers DCMWSP256U2 and DCMWSP650Y2) are directly impacted. The risk is not theoretical; it is tied to a specific mechanical failure mode that occurs when water infiltrates the mower's handle support while the battery remains installed. If you have used your mower in damp conditions, during recent rain, or even if it was stored in a humid garage where condensation might have formed, and the unit has since experienced unexpected behavior, you fall squarely within the affected population.

While any user faces the danger of laceration from an uncontrolled blade, certain demographics are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of this failure. The hazard involves two distinct scenarios: the mower failing to shut off when the bail handle is released, or the mower starting unexpectedly without a key. For elderly users or those with limited mobility, the risk is amplified by the physical demands of operating a walk-behind mower. If the machine fails to stop, an older adult may struggle to physically disengage from the controls or move away from the hazard quickly enough due to slower reaction times or balance issues. The self-propelled models, in particular, can continue to drive forward even if the operator lets go of the handle, potentially leading to falls or being dragged if the user loses their footing.

Families with children are also at heightened risk, not necessarily because of how they operate the mower, but due to the environment in which mowers are typically used. Lawns are common play areas for children and pets. If a mower fails to shut off as intended, it becomes an uncontrolled machine moving across the yard. A child who runs into the lawn after a ball could be struck or run over before an adult can react. Furthermore, the report of a unit starting without a key inserted suggests that the safety interlock mechanism may be compromised. This creates a danger for anyone who assumes the mower is safe because it was turned off previously. If the machine reactivates on its own while someone is nearby—whether they are kneeling to inspect grass clumps or simply standing close by—they may not have time to react to the sudden movement of blades. The incident report of a finger laceration, while mild in this specific case, illustrates that contact with the blade mechanism can occur rapidly and unexpectedly. Therefore, anyone who has allowed family members or pets near the mower area during or immediately after use is indirectly exposed to this risk until the free repair is completed.

It is also important to note that the risk is time-bound. Only mowers with date codes from 2023 week 32 through 2024 week 13 are affected. If you purchased your mower recently but it was manufactured after March 2024 (date code 2024 14-58 or later), you are not part of this specific risk group. However, for those within the date range, the combination of electrical vulnerability to water and the failure of safety shutoffs creates a serious hazard that requires immediate attention.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before taking any action, it is essential to confirm whether your specific mower falls within this recall. DeWALT has identified a precise set of units affected by this safety issue, and knowing exactly what to look for can save you time and unnecessary worry. The recall targets 2024 model year DeWALT Battery-powered mowers, specifically focusing on two main categories: the 21-inch Push walk-behind mowers and the 21-inch Self-Propelled walk-behind mowers. You will need to verify both the model number and the date code to be certain, as manufacturing changes over time mean that not every DeWALT mower of this type is included.

First, look at the physical appearance of your machine. The affected mowers are characterized by a black, gray, and yellow color scheme. You should see the brand name "DeWALT" printed clearly in yellow on either the front or the side of the mower body. This visual cue helps distinguish them from other lawn equipment, but it is not enough on its own to confirm the recall status. You must locate the technical identification labels to proceed.

To find your specific details, you need to inspect two distinct locations on the mower. The model number is printed on the rear door of the mower. Check for one of the following four model numbers: DCMWP234U2, DCMWP600X2, DCMWSP256U2, or DCMWSP650Y2. If your model number does not match one of these four exactly, your unit is likely not part of this specific recall.

Next, and perhaps most critically, you must check the date code to determine if your mower was manufactured within the affected timeframe. Look for a laser-printed yellow code on the left side of the mower, positioned just above the left rear wheel. This code follows the format 20XX YY-58, where "20XX" represents the year, "YY" represents the week of manufacture, and "58" is the specific factory code. Only mowers with date codes ranging from 2023 32-58 through 2024 13-58 are included in this recall. If your mower has a date code starting with 2024 14-58 or later, it was manufactured after March 2024 and is not affected by this safety notice. Double-checking these specific identifiers ensures you know exactly where you stand regarding the potential laceration hazard.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have identified that your DeWALT walk-behind mower is part of this recall, the first and most important step is to stop using the equipment immediately if it has been exposed to water. The remedy provided by the manufacturer and approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is not a simple exchange or a mailed-in refund check. Instead, DeWALT has committed to providing a free repair for all affected units. This approach is designed to address the specific electrical vulnerability in the handle support system without requiring you to purchase an entirely new machine, which can be a significant financial relief given that these are premium power tools.

To initiate this remedy, you must contact DeWALT directly. They have established dedicated channels for consumers to verify their model and schedule service. You can reach their customer support team by phone at 800-990-6421. It is helpful to know that these lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Having your specific details ready before you call will streamline the process. You should have your model number and date code handy, as these are the critical identifiers that determine eligibility for the free repair.

Alternatively, if you prefer to handle this online, DeWALT has created specific landing pages for this recall. You can visit https://www.dewalt.com/push-mowers-recall directly. If you do not find the link there, you can go to the main DeWALT website at https://www.dewalt.com and scroll to the very bottom of the page. Look for the section labeled "Safety Notices and Recalls." Clicking through this menu will guide you to the same information and contact options available by phone.

Once you have made contact, DeWALT will arrange for your mower to be repaired at an authorized service center near you. This means you will not need to pay for parts or labor associated with fixing the laceration hazard. The repair is free of charge to you as the consumer. This process is essential because it ensures that the internal components responsible for the failure to shut off are correctly addressed by technicians trained specifically on DeWALT equipment. By using an authorized center, you ensure that the fix meets the safety standards required to eliminate the risk of the mower starting unexpectedly or continuing to run after the bail handle is released.

Please note that the recall does not mention a direct refund option for those who wish to keep their mower but simply want their money back. The primary remedy is the repair. If you have already purchased a new mower or found an alternative solution, you should still verify if your old unit is affected, as leaving a potentially hazardous device in your shed poses a risk to you and others. However, for those wishing to retain their machine, the free repair at a local authorized center is the designated path forward.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your new DeWALT mower. You have likely just unboxed it, eager to tackle that pile of weekend chores, and the idea of pausing your progress to deal with a recall feels like an unnecessary inconvenience. However, ignoring this specific safety notice carries risks that extend far beyond a simple delay in your landscaping plans. The core issue here is not a minor mechanical glitch but a fundamental failure of the machine’s safety controls, which are designed specifically to protect you from severe physical harm.

The hazard stems from water intrusion into the handle support area while the battery remains installed. When this happens, the electrical pathways can become compromised in a way that bypasses the standard shutdown mechanism. Normally, releasing the bail handle—the lever you squeeze to engage the blade—should immediately cut power and stop the cutting deck. If the mower fails to shut off when you let go, the blades continue to spin at high speed even though you have disengaged the safety control. This creates a dangerous disconnect between your actions and the machine’s response. You might step back to adjust your grip or clear debris, believing the mower is safe, while the cutting mechanism remains active and unpredictable.

The potential for injury in this scenario is significant. A laceration hazard means that contact with the moving blades can cause deep cuts, which are particularly dangerous on hands, legs, and feet given their proximity to the machine during operation. While the company has reported one incident involving a finger laceration where no medical attention was required, it is crucial to recognize that this represents only one data point among ten reports of the mower failing to shut off. The fact that no severe injuries have been widely documented yet does not mean the risk is absent; it simply means we are relying on prevention rather than reaction. Continuing to use a unit that has gotten wet effectively turns your reliable tool into an unpredictable hazard.

Furthermore, there is the secondary risk of the mower starting unexpectedly without a key inserted. If the electrical fault allows the machine to ignite on its own, you could be caught off guard, increasing the likelihood of an accident before you can react. Ignoring the recall means accepting these probabilities as part of your daily routine. The remedy provided—a free repair at an authorized service center—is designed to restore the integrity of the safety switches and seal the vulnerabilities that allow water to cause these failures. By acting now, you ensure that your tool remains a safe extension of your capabilities rather than becoming a source of preventable danger.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a mechanical failure related to water intrusion in DeWALT mowers, the underlying principle is universal for any battery-powered outdoor power equipment: moisture is one of the most common enemies of electronic safety systems. When you own cordless tools that rely on complex circuit boards and sensors, protecting them from the elements isn't just about extending the battery's life; it is a critical component of your personal safety. Water can bridge electrical contacts that should remain open, potentially causing devices to start unexpectedly or fail to shut off when you release a safety trigger. To mitigate this risk in your daily routine, always store your mowers, trimmers, and blowers in a dry, covered area such as a garage or shed. If you must leave equipment outside temporarily, use a high-quality, waterproof cover that seals out rain and humidity, but remember to remove the battery before covering if possible, as condensation can still form inside sealed spaces.

Beyond storage, developing a habit of regular inspection is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents. Before each season begins, and periodically during heavy use, check your equipment for signs of wear on safety features like bail handles, key switches, and sensor contacts. If you notice that a handle feels loose or a button does not snap back with its usual firmness, do not ignore it. These small mechanical issues can escalate into major safety failures. Additionally, always keep the battery compartment clean and dry. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any grass clippings, mud, or moisture after use. Avoid using high-pressure water hoses to clean your mower's electronic components, as the force of the water can push moisture deep into seals and connectors where it cannot easily evaporate.

Finally, stay informed about the broader landscape of product safety by signing up for recall alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and subscribing to safety notices from your tool manufacturers. Recalls are often issued based on patterns of failures that may not yet have resulted in serious injury, but early detection can prevent future harm. By treating your power tools with the same respect you would give to a vehicle—regular maintenance, proper storage, and immediate attention to any unusual behavior—you create a safer environment for yourself and your family. Remember, safety is not just about reacting to a recall; it is about proactive care that keeps your equipment functioning exactly as designed.