Do you own an HP or Compaq PC? It could be a fire hazard -- find out if it is recalled here

HP makes great computers -- I wouldn't hesitate for a moment in recommending the brand to friends or family looking for a new PC. With that said, no manufacturer is infallible; defects and recalls can happen to them all.

Today, a new recall for both HP and Compaq computers is announced by the US Government. Unfortunately, it is a pretty nasty one, as these laptops are deemed both fire and burn hazards. Real property has actually been damaged by the flawed machines. Luckily, by replacing the battery, the risk can be removed. If you own an HP or Compaq laptop, keep reading to see if you are affected.

"This recall involves lithium-ion batteries containing Panasonic cells that are used in HP notebook computers. The batteries are compatible with HP, Compaq, HP ProBook, HP ENVY, Compaq Presario, and HP Pavilion notebook computers. The black batteries measure about 8 inches long, 2 inches wide and about 1 inch high. The battery bar code is printed on the back of the battery. 'HP Notebook Battery' and the model number are printed on the battery. The batteries included in this recall have the following barcodes: 6BZLU, 6CGFK, 6CGFQ, 6CZMB, 6DEMA, 6DEMH, 6DGAL and 6EBVA", says the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The commission further explains where the impacted products were sold.

Best Buy, Wal-Mart, and Costco and authorized dealers nationwide and online at www.hp.com from March 2013 through August 2015. The batteries were sold with notebook computers for between $300 and $1,700. The batteries were also sold separately for between $50 and $90.

Yes, this is a very serious issue, and it should not be taken lightly. If you find that your laptop is using one of the batteries as listed above, you should remove it from the machine right away. Better safe than sorry, right?

HP says the following to its customers.

HP’s primary concern is for the safety of our customers. HP is proactively notifying customers, and will provide a replacement battery for each verified, eligible battery, at no cost. For customers with 10 or more potentially affected batteries, HP has put in place a process to assist with the validation and ordering process.

If you want to get your affected battery replaced, you can do so here. Simply run the Windows program as linked at the bottom, and follow the steps.

Photo credit: Jeffrey B. Banke / Shutterstock