BJ's Wholesale Club Recalls Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches Due to Burn Hazard

What was recalled

If you have recently purchased outdoor lighting or insect-repelling devices from a BJ’s Wholesale Club location, it is important to pause and check your inventory. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific Berkley Jensen brand Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches. This action was taken because the product poses a significant safety risk to consumers who use them in their homes, patios, or gardens. The recall encompasses tiki torches that were sold exclusively at BJ’s Wholesale Club stores. It is crucial to understand that this is not a blanket recall of all Berkley Jensen products, nor is it a recall of all tiki torches on the market; it is strictly limited to the specific models and configurations described below.

The affected items are Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches. These torches are designed with a wrought iron stake that anchors them into the ground, providing stability for the tall structure. The physical dimensions of the recalled torches vary slightly in width but share a consistent height. Specifically, the recall includes two main variations based on the width of the torch body: those that are five inches wide and 72 inches high, and those that are six inches wide and 72 inches high. Regardless of the width, all affected units stand at a height of 72 inches, making them substantial fixtures in any outdoor space.

To help you identify whether your torch is part of this recall, you should look closely at the top component of the torch, known as the torch top or fuel reservoir cap. The recalled units feature tops that are plated in one of four specific finishes: copper-plated, nickel-plated, black, or gray. Inside the top, the wick is made of fiberglass, which is standard for citronella-style torches to burn slowly and release the repellent scent. If your tiki torch matches these dimensions (5-inch or 6-inch width, 72-inch height) and has one of the four specified metal finishes on the top, it falls under this recall notice.

The scope of this recall is defined by where and when these items were available to the public. These specific tiki torches were sold only at BJ’s Wholesale Club retail locations. The CPSC announced this recall on March 28, 2024, which serves as the official date for consumer awareness. While the announcement date is in 2024, these products may have been on shelves for some time prior to that date. If you are unsure about the exact purchase date, the physical characteristics of the torch and its point of sale (BJ’s Wholesale Club) are your primary indicators. It is important to note that the recall facts do not specify the total number of units sold or the exact start and end dates of the sales period beyond the fact that they were sold at BJ’s Wholesale Club. If you purchased these items from a different retailer, an online marketplace other than the official BJ’s site, or a different brand entirely, this specific recall does not apply to your product.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, a tiki torch seems like a simple source of ambient light and insect repellent for your patio or backyard. You light the wick, the fuel burns steadily, and you enjoy the evening. However, in the case of the recalled Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches, a critical failure in the design or construction of the torch top creates a serious and immediate danger. The core issue is that the metal cap covering the flame can either break open unexpectedly or detach completely while the torch is still lit. This is not merely an inconvenience; it is a direct pathway to physical injury.

To understand why this happens, we have to look at how these torches function under heat. The fuel reservoir at the bottom heats up the wick, which in turn heats the metal cap above it. Metal expands when heated, and over time, or due to manufacturing flaws, the joints holding that cap in place can weaken. When the cap breaks open, the controlled flame is no longer contained within its intended housing. Instead, liquid fuel from the reservoir can spill out onto the hot metal surface or into the air, causing a sudden flare-up. If the cap falls off entirely, the wick and burning fuel are exposed directly to the environment, making the torch unstable and unpredictable.

This mechanism leads directly to burn injuries in two primary ways. First, if the cap breaks open, hot fuel can splash onto your skin or clothing, causing immediate thermal burns. Second, because the torch is tall (72 inches) and often placed near seating areas or walkways, a falling cap or a sudden flare-up can catch people off guard. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has already documented nine reports of this specific failure mode, resulting in two confirmed burn injuries. These incidents highlight that the risk isn't theoretical; it is a tangible threat to anyone standing nearby when the component fails.

It is also important to note that the hazard persists even after you think you are done using the torch. The metal components retain heat for a long time, and if the cap has loosened but not yet fallen, it can give way unexpectedly as the torch cools or if it is moved slightly. This unpredictability makes the recalled models particularly dangerous compared to well-made alternatives where caps are securely fastened to withstand thermal stress.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for this specific recall consists of homeowners and renters who purchased Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches from BJ’s Wholesale Club. These are not small, tabletop items that sit safely on a kitchen counter; they are substantial outdoor fixtures standing five or six inches wide and a full seven feet tall. Because they are designed to be stuck into the ground in yards, patios, and garden pathways, the people most immediately exposed are those who spend time outdoors during the evening hours when these torches are typically lit. This includes families hosting summer barbecues, neighbors gardening at dusk, or anyone walking through their property after sunset. The hazard is not contained within a stable base but resides in the upper portion of the torch where the fuel reservoir and flame interact with the top cap.

While any user can be injured, certain individuals face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the burn mechanism described in the recall. The CPSC reports that the tiki torch top can break open or fall off entirely while the device is still lit. When this happens, hot fuel and open flame are suddenly released without the protective barrier of the cap. This dynamic creates an unpredictable shower of heat and fire that falls directly downward or splashes onto nearby surfaces and people. Children are particularly at risk because their height often places them in the direct path of falling debris from a seven-foot object. A child playing near the base of the torch or running through a yard where these torches are installed could be struck by the falling metal top or exposed to the sudden burst of flame, leading to severe burns on exposed skin, arms, and legs.

Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility may also be at greater risk for several reasons. If the torch top detaches and ignites nearby combustible materials like dry leaves, mulch, or clothing, it can create a secondary fire hazard that spreads quickly. For seniors who might rely on walking aids or have slower reaction times, the sudden onset of a burn injury from hot fuel splatter can be particularly dangerous, increasing the likelihood of serious tissue damage. Furthermore, because the defect involves the structural integrity of the torch top—a component that is meant to stay securely attached—the risk is not limited to those who touch the flame directly. It extends to anyone standing within the immediate vicinity of the torch when the failure occurs. The two reported burn injuries in the recall data serve as a stark reminder that this is not merely a product malfunction but a genuine safety threat that can cause physical harm during normal, intended use. Therefore, everyone who owns these specific torches should be considered potentially at risk until they are properly addressed through the refund process.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, it is critical to confirm that your specific tiki torches are part of this recall. Since Berkley Jensen products are sold at various times and potentially through different channels in the past, visual inspection combined with purchase history is your best tool for verification. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a very specific set of physical characteristics for the affected units. If you do not have the receipt or remember the exact date of purchase, you can still identify these items by their unique construction and aesthetic details.

First, look at the brand name. The recalled products are explicitly labeled as Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches. If your torches bear a different brand name, they are not part of this specific recall action by BJ's Wholesale Club. Next, examine the dimensions carefully. These torches are tall, standing at exactly 72 inches high. The width is the next distinguishing factor: the stakes are either five inches wide or six inches wide. You need to measure the base stake where it meets the ground, not the flame head itself.

The material of the stake is also a key identifier. These recalled torches feature a wrought iron stake. If your torch has a plastic stake or a different metal alloy that does not look like traditional wrought iron, it may not be included in this batch. Perhaps the most helpful way to identify the item is by looking at the torch top (the cap that holds the fuel and flame). The recall covers units with tops that have been plated in one of four specific finishes: copper-plated, nickel-plated, black, or gray. If your top matches one of these descriptions, you should proceed with caution.

Additionally, check the wick. The recalled items come equipped with a fiberglass wick. While wicks can wear out over time, the presence of this specific material in combination with the wrought iron stake and the 72-inch height is a strong indicator that your product is subject to this recall.

Finally, consider where you bought them. These items were sold exclusively at BJ's Wholesale Club. If you purchased them from a different retailer, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, or an online marketplace like Amazon (unless it was a direct sale from BJ's), they are not part of this specific recall. If you still have your receipt or credit card statement, look for the Berkley Jensen brand and the description of citronella tiki torches purchased at BJ's. If you cannot find your receipt but the physical characteristics match the description above, it is safest to assume they are included in the recall until you can verify otherwise with the manufacturer.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have been using these tiki torches for your outdoor gatherings, the most important thing to know right now is that there is no repair option available. The structural integrity of the torch top cannot be fixed in a way that guarantees safety, so the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and BJ’s Wholesale Club have established a straightforward remedy: a full refund. This means you are not expected to keep a potentially dangerous product, nor are you required to pay for shipping or return labels. The process is designed to be as frictionless as possible because your safety is the priority. You simply need to get the item out of your home and back into the hands of the retailer so they can ensure it does not end up on another patio.

To initiate this refund, you must contact BJ’s Wholesale Club directly through one of their dedicated recall channels. The company has set up specific hours for customer service to handle these inquiries, so checking the schedule before you call is a wise step. You can reach them by phone at 800-257-2582. Their staff is available from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET on Saturdays, and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET on Sundays. If you prefer written communication or want to keep a record of your interaction, you can visit www.bjs.com/help/recall and click on the email icon. Alternatively, navigating to www.bjs.com and clicking on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page will provide further instructions. Regardless of how you choose to contact them, be prepared to confirm that you possess the recalled Berkley Jensen Citronella 72-inch Tiki Torches.

Once you have initiated the refund process, you will need to physically return or dispose of the torches. The instructions are specific: you should destroy and dispose of the tiki torches, or return them to BJ’s Wholesale Club. A critical safety step here is ensuring that the fuel reservoir is completely empty before you do either. This prevents any accidental spills or fires during transport or disposal. If you choose to return the item to a store location, bring it with you after you have contacted customer service to confirm the logistics. If you opt for destruction and disposal, make sure the unit is broken down enough that no one can attempt to use it again. The goal is to ensure that this specific hazard does not recur in your household or elsewhere.

It is worth noting why a repair was not offered. With nine reports of the top breaking open and two confirmed burn injuries, the risk is significant. A temporary fix might hold for a day or two, but the underlying design flaw remains. By offering a full refund, BJ’s Wholesale Club is acknowledging that the product cannot be made safe through simple adjustments. This approach protects you from the frustration of trying to patch a defective item while potentially putting your family at risk. Take advantage of this generous remedy immediately, as lingering with a lit torch that can suddenly lose its top is not worth the gamble.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a product recall is issued for a burn hazard involving open flames, the most immediate and tangible consequence of ignoring the notice is personal injury. In this specific case, the Berkley Jensen Citronella Tiki Torches are designed to hold fuel and create an open flame outdoors. The critical failure point identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is the torch top, which can break open or detach entirely while the wick is still burning. If you choose to continue using these torches despite the warning, you are essentially gambling with your physical safety. The mechanism that holds the flame in place is compromised, meaning there is no guarantee that the fuel will remain contained within its reservoir.

The reality of this hazard is not merely theoretical; it has already resulted in documented harm. According to the recall data, the manufacturer has received nine reports where the torch top broke open or fell off while the item was lit. These are not just product defects; they are incidents where the control over the fire was lost unexpectedly. Among these nine reports, two individuals sustained burn injuries. While two may seem like a small number in isolation, each incident represents a person who suffered pain, potential medical treatment, and the shock of an unexpected fire spreading from what was intended to be a decorative or insect-repelling device.

Beyond the risk of direct burns to your skin, ignoring the recall introduces significant secondary dangers. A detached torch top can cause hot fuel to spill out onto patios, decks, grass, or near flammable furniture and curtains. This creates an uncontrolled fire hazard that can escalate quickly, potentially leading to property damage or a larger structure fire if the fuel ignites nearby materials. Furthermore, citronella torches are often used during evening gatherings when children and pets are present. A falling, burning torch top becomes a dangerous projectile or a scattered source of ignition in an area where people may be sitting on the ground or where animals might wander close to the heat.

There is also a psychological toll to ignoring safety warnings. Knowing that your outdoor lighting poses a risk can turn a relaxing evening into a source of anxiety. You may find yourself constantly monitoring the torches, worrying about whether they will fail, which defeats the purpose of having ambient lighting in the first place. More importantly, by continuing to use a recalled product, you are waiving your right to a remedy. If an injury were to occur while using a product that you knew was subject to a recall and had been instructed to stop using, it could complicate any potential legal or insurance claims regarding compensation for medical bills or damages. The simplest path is to remove the hazard entirely by following the recall instructions.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain tiki torches, the underlying safety principles apply to almost any outdoor flame source or heavy decorative item you place on your patio or in your garden. The most critical rule for any product involving fire is maintenance and inspection before every single use. Tiki torches, citronella candles, and propane heaters are not "set it and forget it" items. Over time, exposure to rain, wind, and UV rays can degrade materials that seem sturdy when new. Fiberglass wicks can become brittle or frayed, metal stakes can corrode at the base where they meet the soil, and plastic components can become unstable in extreme heat. Taking thirty seconds to visually inspect your torches for cracks, loose fittings, or unusual discoloration before lighting them can prevent many accidents that stem from wear and tear rather than initial defects.

Equally important is how you handle the fuel itself. Many consumers assume that citronella oil is harmless because it is often marketed as an insect repellent, but it remains a highly flammable hydrocarbon. Never overfill your torch reservoirs beyond the manufacturer’s recommended line, and always ensure the cap or top mechanism is tightly secured before igniting the wick. If you notice any fuel leaking around the neck of the torch while it is lit, extinguish it immediately and allow it to cool completely before attempting to fix the issue. Storing spare fuel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources is also essential, as gas buildup in enclosed containers can lead to pressure explosions even without an open flame nearby.

Beyond fire safety, consider the physical stability of your outdoor decor. The recalled items were noted for their height—72 inches—which creates a high center of gravity. Any tall, heavy object placed on a soft surface like grass or dirt is susceptible to tipping if bumped by wind, pets, or people moving around in low light. Use stakes that are significantly longer than the product’s recommendation to ensure deep anchoring in the ground, and check these anchors regularly after major storms. A falling torch does not just pose a burn risk; it can shatter glass components or damage hardscaping, creating secondary hazards like sharp shards or tripping obstacles.

Finally, make recall awareness a habit rather than a reaction. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and your major retailers. Safety standards evolve, and manufacturers sometimes discover issues that were not apparent during initial testing. By staying informed through official government channels, you empower yourself to act quickly when new information arises, ensuring that your home remains a place of relaxation rather than risk. Regularly checking the CPSC website for updates on outdoor gear, children’s products, and household appliances is a simple, free step that can save you from unexpected hazards in the future.