FDA warns Medline electric beds present fire risk after two deaths

The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning on Friday regarding electric hospital beds manufactured by Medline.

The alert cites two deaths and 16 serious injuries linked to the equipment. Medline, which is based in Northfield, Illinois, sent an urgent safety notice to customers earlier this week.

The company instructed users to stop operating its beds and related products until specific modifications are made. These beds feature built-in electric motors and remote controls that adjust patient positioning.

Medline stated that electrical components can overheat if motors or other parts jam. This overheating can lead to smoking, melting, and fire. The company also noted that accessories present a risk of asphyxiation or entrapment.

"Overheating of the bed's electrical components may progress to smoking, sparking, melting, burning, and/or fire," Medline said in the FDA alert.

The company advised vendors to halt sales of its branded beds, rails, mattresses, and kits. Medline announced it is ending production of homecare and long-term care beds and exiting that market segment.

In a press release dated October 24, Medline outlined recommended modifications for customers still using the devices. A Medline spokesperson told CBS News that users may continue operating the products if they follow the company's instructions.

The publicly listed company has a market value of $43 billion. Customers can reach Medline at 800-950-0128, option 7, for more information.