An Optimus Nova stove like the ones in the recall

Outdoor enthusiasts have been warned to stop using two models of multifuel stoves because of fears they could present a fire risk.

Katadyn Products has issued a recall notice on its Optimus Nova and Optimus Nova+ expedition stoves.

It is advising anyone who bought these models between January 2009 and September 2010 not to use them because torn or expanded o-rings can allow fuel to leak. The Swiss company said: “A sharp edge left over from tooling for the quick-action coupling and the on/off fuel supply valve of the pump may cause the o-rings to tear.

“Also, the o-rings used in the fuel hose and in the on/off valve on some stoves can expand with the use of certain kinds of fuel. Some Nova stoves of the latest production lots may have fuel hoses which are not completely crimped and could get detached.”

The recall of the China-made products affects only those with a black burner housing with numbers from QA000011-QA007313. Those with a silver housing and no QA number are not affected.

The recall affects about 11,500 of the stoves sold and the company has set up a special website to deal with the recall.

Users can also call Katadyn Products in Switzerland on +800 67 84 68 70 between 8am and noon, and 1.30pm to 5pm Central European Time (an hour ahead of BST) Monday to Friday.