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Kidde fire extinguisher

Key Information

Kidde (/ˈkɪdə/[2]) is an American multinational company that manufactures and distributes fire detection and suppression equipment, as well as smoke and CO alarm units. Kidde is one of America's largest manufacturers of smoke alarms[3][4] and fire safety products.[5]

Kidde is headquartered in Mebane, North Carolina,[3] and it has been part of Kidde Global Solutions since December 2024.[1]

History

[edit]

The company was founded by Walter Kidde in 1917 in the United States.[6]

1900s

[edit]

Walter Kidde founded Kidde Inc. in 1917 with $300 he had in savings. In 1918 the company, then known as Walter Kidde & Company, purchased the rights to the "Rich" system; a way to detect fires on board ships.[7]

1920s

[edit]

In 1923, Kidde purchased the patent rights for a siphon device that allowed quick release of carbon dioxide, improving the function of fire extinguishers. In 1924, the company produced the first portable carbon dioxide fire extinguisher and in 1925 it installed the first built in industrial fire extinguishing system. In 1926, Walter Kidde & Company partnered with the Navy to design a system to protect airplane engines against fires.[7]

1930s

[edit]

The company established a British operation at Northolt in 1935 as its first overseas operation.[6] The company further expanded to Africa, Asia, Europe and South America.[citation needed]

1940s

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When Walter Kidde died in 1943, his son John took control of the company. At that time, the company employed over 5,000 people, and was producing over $60 million of war supplies.[7]

1950s

[edit]

At the end of WWII the company saw a significant drop in sales. In the 1950s, the company diversified into machinery and tool manufacturing, siphon devices for consumer and medical uses, and aircraft accessories.[7]

1960s–1970s

[edit]

Robert L. Dickinson was named president of the company in 1961. In January 1964, Fred Sullivan, officer and director of the Litton Industries, succeeded Dickinson as president and later succeeded John Kidde as chairman. From 1964 to 1968, Kidde grew from $40 million in annual revenues to $400 million. In 1966, Kidde was named to the Fortune 500 list at position 283. In 1968 the company was incorporated as Kidde & Company, Inc.[7]

Kidde acquired the Spartus Corporation, a Louisville, Mississippi–based maker of clocks and camera equipment, in 1970 for $24 million (equivalent to $194.32 million in 2024).[8]

1980s

[edit]

John Kidde died in May 1987.[9] In August 1987, Kidde was purchased for $1.7 billion by August Hanson Industries, the United States arm of Hanson Trust of the United Kingdom.[10]

In August 1988, Hanson sold most of the Kidde fire protection business to Pilgrim House Group, a firm based in the United Kingdom involved in electrical products and fire protection.

Included in the sale were Walter Kidde North America Group, Fenwal Inc.(founded in 1935 by TL Fenn and Carl Walter),[11] and Kidde's Fire Protection Group Europe. During the Kidde acquisition process Pilgrim House was purchased by Williams Holdings plc, an industrial management firm.[12] In 1989, it merged with Graviner (another Williams Holdings business) to form Kidde Graviner.[6]

1990s

[edit]

In 1990, subsidiary Walter Kidde Aerospace Inc. opened a Production and Technology Center, for $4 million. By that time, Kidde products were found in aircraft such as the B-2 Stealth Bomber and 747-400 airliners.[12] In 1993, it acquired Dunford Hepburn.[6] In February 1997, Williams Holdings purchased Chubb Security plc.[13]

In 1996, Kidde International purchased Santa Barbara Dual Spectrum (SBDS) from Hughes Aircraft. SBDS subsequently operated as a division of Kidde Technologies.[14]

In March 1999, Kidde recalled 2 models of Carbon Monoxide Alarms, that were alarming late or not alarming at all. ~1 million (+650 thousand NightHawk brand, +350 thousand LifeSaver brand) units were recalled. Units from November 8, 1998, and March 9, 1999, are affected.

2000s

[edit]

In March 2000, Williams announced the breakup of the company.[6] Now an independent entity, the firm adopted the name Kidde plc in September 2000. In October 2000, Kidde announced it was going to demerge from Chubb plc.[15] Kidde plc listed on the London Stock Exchange in November of that year.[10][16]

In December 2004, Financial Times reported Kidde as "the market leader in residential fire protection in the United States."[17] In April 2005, United Technologies Corporation finalized its acquisition of Kidde and place the company under its new Fire & Security brand. The move re joined it to its former sister company Chubb Security, and several other brands to create UTC Fire & Security.[18][19]

In July 2005, Kidde recalled 10-pound industrial fire extinguishers with Zytel valves due to discharge issues, manufactured between 1999 and 2000. 470 thousand units were recalled. Three injuries were reported due to extinguisher failure.[20]

In 2009, Kidde Acquired the company FireX, which was owned by Invensys Controls.[21]

In March 2009, nine models of Kidde XL fire extinguishers manufactured from October 2007 through April 2008 were recalled due to failure of operation. ~167 thousand fire extinguishers were recalled.[22]

In July 2009, Kidde recalled a Dual-Sensor smoke alarm model PI2000, due to possible failure of alarm. Models made from August 2008 and May 2009 are recalled. ~94 thousand units were recalled.[23]

2010s

[edit]

In April 2013, Kidde expanded its Worry-Free product line to include UL-listed carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.[24]

In September 2014, Kidde recalled three models of smoke alarm (i12010S, i12010SCO, and KN-COSM-IBA) for failing to alert buyers of emergency after a power outage. Models made from December 18, 2013, to May 13, 2014, are affected. 1.2 million (+112 thousand in Canada) were recalled.[25]

In February 2015, Kidde recalled 31 models of extinguishers with Zytel valves due to the valve not fully opening, causing the extinguisher to not discharge properly. Affected models were made from July 23, 2013, to October 15, 2014. 4.6 million (+175 thousand in Canada) extinguishers were recalled.[26]

In November 2016, Kidde recalled over 3.6 million (+1.5 million in Canada) NightHawk model KN-COSM-IB combination smoke alarms due to the seven-year "end of life" signal timer being restarted when the battery was replaced, meaning that the alarm cannot signal that its sensors have expired. Models manufactured from June 2004 and December 2010 are affected by the recall.[27][28]

A year later in November 2017, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall notice for 134 models of Kidde fire extinguishers citing failures to discharge correctly when used.[29] As many as 37.8 million extinguishers could be covered by the recall notice. Even extinguishers dating back from the 70's. One death has been reported due to extinguisher failure.[30][31]

Not too long later in March 2018, Kidde recalled its two Dual-Sensor Smoke Detector models, PI9010 and the PI2010.[32] The reason for the recall was a yellow cap left on one of the sensors that could fail to alert buyers of the alarm of a possible fire. 452,000 units in the US and about 40,000 units in Canada were affected in the recall. The recall affected units of the 2 models manufactured from September 2016, through January 2018. No injuries or accidents were reported because of the yellow cap before the recall.

2020s

[edit]

In May 2021, Kidde announced a recall of their TruSense line of alarms due to the alarms not detecting smoke until fatal levels. 226 thousand units have been recalled.[33]

On May 14, 2023, Kidde-Fenwal filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.[34]

In December 2024, Kidde was sold by Carrier Global and became part of a new entity called Kidde Global Solutions.[1]

Locations

[edit]

Kidde is headquartered in Mebane, North Carolina. Kidde Canada (formerly Pyrene Company or Chubb Security) operates under Kidde Fire Safety North America and is located in Toronto, Ontario.[35] Kidde Aerospace is located in Wilson, North Carolina.[36]

Awards and recognition

[edit]

In September 2017, Kidde was ranked among the top manufacturers of carbon monoxide alarms.[37][38] Kidde's fire blanket was also ranked a "top player" in the industry by the Global Fire Blanket Market.[39] Kidde carbon monoxide alarms are included in the "Carbon Monoxide Alarms industry" report of 2017 to 2022.

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kidde

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Kidde is an American multinational company specializing in and detection products, founded in 1917 by inventor Walter Kidde as a pioneer in early detection and suppression technologies. The company manufactures a wide range of residential and commercial safety equipment, including alarms, detectors, extinguishers, escape ladders, and multi-criteria detection systems designed to protect lives and property worldwide. Headquartered in , Kidde is part of Kidde Global Solutions, an independent company owned by an affiliate of since its acquisition from Corporation in December 2024, and maintains a global presence with products distributed in over 80 countries. Kidde's history traces back to its inception when Walter Kidde developed the first integrated smoke detection and carbon dioxide extinguishing system for U.S. Navy ships during , marking a significant advancement in maritime fire protection. Over the subsequent century, the company expanded from industrial applications to consumer markets, introducing innovations such as home smoke alarms in the and ongoing developments in smart, interconnected safety devices. Today, Kidde holds a dominant position as the world's largest manufacturer of products, emphasizing reliability, ease of use, and compliance with international standards like UL and NFPA. Beyond product development, Kidde is committed to education and community outreach, partnering with organizations such as the and Public Safety Foundation to provide free alarms and training programs aimed at reducing fire-related injuries and fatalities. The company's core values center on , , and , driving initiatives like the "Cause for Alarm" campaign, which promotes proactive in underserved communities. These efforts underscore Kidde's role not only as a provider but as a key contributor to global public safety.

History

Founding and early innovations (1917–1940s)

Walter Kidde, born in 1877 in , earned a degree from and initially pursued a career in , opening Walter Kidde Constructors in 1900 with just $300 in savings. By 1917, he founded the Walter Kidde Company, shifting focus to equipment after recognizing the potential in emerging suppression technologies. In 1918, the company acquired the rights to the "Rich" system—a shipboard and extinguishing apparatus—modifying it to use (CO2) instead of for more effective suppression, resulting in the first integrated detection and CO2 extinguishing system for maritime use. This innovation built on a 1917 acquisition of the Rich patent specifically for CO2 applications in fire fighting. Further patents followed, including a 1923 device for rapid CO2 release, enabling the 1924 introduction of the world's first portable CO2 , which allowed for handheld deployment in various settings. By 1925, Kidde installed its inaugural built-in industrial CO2 suppression system, marking a in protecting large-scale facilities from fire hazards. The company's innovations extended to in , when it collaborated with the U.S. to develop a system for engines, laying groundwork for applications. International expansion began in 1931 with the establishment of Walter Kidde Ltd. in the , focusing on fire detection and extinguishing equipment to serve European markets. During , Kidde ramped up production of detection and suppression systems, along with self-inflating life rafts, flotation vests, and specialized extinguishers for ships, tanks, and aircraft, contributing essential safety gear to Allied forces. By 1943, annual sales peaked at $60 million, with a exceeding 5,000, reflecting the scale of wartime demand. That same year, Walter Kidde died suddenly of a heart attack at age 65, after which leadership transitioned to his son, John Kidde, who guided the company through the war's end.

Expansion and diversification (1950s–1970s)

Following , Walter Kidde & Company experienced a significant decline in sales as demand for wartime fire suppression equipment waned, prompting a strategic shift toward markets including industrial and consumer applications. This transition marked the beginning of a broader diversification effort to stabilize and expand operations beyond its core business. In the , the company ventured into machinery and tool manufacturing, as well as devices for consumer and medical uses, which included equipment for oxygen delivery systems. These moves leveraged Kidde's expertise in pressurized systems, originally developed from its early extinguishers, to enter growing sectors like healthcare and industrial tools. Concurrently, Kidde expanded its aircraft accessories division, building on pre-war innovations in to supply suppression systems for commercial and . Under the leadership of John J. Sullivan, who became president in 1964, Kidde pursued aggressive growth through acquisitions and internal development, increasing annual revenues from $40 million in 1964 to $400 million by 1968. This period saw the company solidify its position as a diversified conglomerate, with international sales expanding via established agencies in , , , and , contributing to overall revenue momentum. In 1968, the firm was incorporated as Kidde & Company, Inc., enhancing its structure for further public market activities on the . A notable acquisition in 1970 was the Spartus Corporation, a manufacturer of cameras and clocks based in , purchased for $24 million to broaden Kidde's consumer product lines. This deal exemplified the company's strategy of entering non-core areas to mitigate risks in its primary operations while capitalizing on synergies in precision manufacturing. By the late 1970s, these efforts had positioned Kidde as a multifaceted industrial player, with becoming a key growth driver amid rising global .

Acquisitions and corporate changes (1980s–1990s)

In 1987, Hanson Trust PLC, a British conglomerate, acquired Kidde Inc. for approximately $1.8 billion in a deal announced on , which included cash payments and stock rights to shareholders. This acquisition integrated Kidde's diverse operations, including and divisions, into Hanson's portfolio of industrial holdings, marking a significant shift as Kidde transitioned from independent status to part of a larger multinational entity. By 1988, Hanson sought to divest non-core assets and sold Kidde's businesses—encompassing Walter Kidde , Fenwal, and the Group —to Pilgrim House Group PLC for $265.8 million, including $253.8 million in cash and assumed debt of $12 million. Shortly thereafter, in October 1988, Williams Holdings PLC acquired Pilgrim House, effectively bringing Kidde's operations under Williams' management-focused conglomerate structure and consolidating them with related subsidiaries like Graviner and Deugra. This series of transactions streamlined Kidde's focus on fire detection and suppression while aligning it with Williams' strategy of operational efficiency and divestitures of underperforming units. In 1989, under Williams' ownership, the operations of Walter Kidde Limited merged with Graviner Limited, another Williams subsidiary specializing in and systems, to form Kidde-Graviner Ltd. This merger enhanced Kidde's capabilities in and industrial by combining expertise in detection technologies and suppression agents, fostering integrated product development for global markets. By 1993, Kidde expanded its fire protection services through the acquisition of Dunford Hepburn, a UK-based firm, which was relocated to Kidde's facilities in , strengthening its service offerings in installation and maintenance. Throughout the , Kidde pursued growth in the sector, developing advanced for commercial and , including contributions to high-profile programs that underscored its role in safety-critical applications. The decade culminated in restructuring efforts that positioned Kidde for independence; in 2000, following Williams PLC's decision to split its operations, Kidde was demerged to form Kidde PLC as a standalone listed on the . This separation, announced in March 2000 and completed by November, allowed Kidde to concentrate exclusively on products and services, free from Williams' broader industrial diversification, with the incurring costs of around £80 million for reorganization and redundancies.

Integration into larger conglomerates (2000s–2010s)

In 2005, Corporation (UTC) acquired Kidde plc for $2.8 billion, marking a significant consolidation in the industry. This acquisition integrated Kidde with UTC's existing Chubb fire protection unit to form UTC Fire & Security, a division that combined Kidde's residential and commercial product expertise with Chubb's global service network, enhancing operational scale and market reach across 30 countries. Under UTC's ownership, Kidde benefited from increased R&D resources, which supported product innovation while addressing early challenges, such as the 2005 recall of certain industrial dry chemical fire extinguishers due to potential valve failures that could prevent discharge. The integration into UTC Fire & Security streamlined Kidde's operations, allowing for broader distribution and technological advancements in . For instance, following a 1999 recall of approximately one million and Lifesaver carbon monoxide alarms that failed to alert promptly due to issues, UTC's oversight helped strengthen quality controls. Similarly, a recall addressed disposable fire extinguishers with faulty valves that might not fully discharge under repeated use, impacting consumer trust but prompting improved manufacturing standards within the conglomerate. These incidents underscored the benefits of UTC's , which provided enhanced and frameworks. During the 2010s, Kidde advanced its product portfolio under UTC, launching the Worry-Free line of 10-year sealed battery smoke alarms in 2012, featuring batteries to eliminate frequent replacements and improve reliability. In 2013, the company extended this innovation to alarms, becoming the first manufacturer to offer models with sealed-in batteries lasting a full decade, aligning with evolving standards for long-term protection. By 2017, Kidde introduced the P4010 series with Wire-Free interconnect technology, enabling battery-operated alarms to communicate wirelessly across a without hardwiring, representing an early step toward connected systems. As part of UTC's broader restructuring, Kidde's fire and security operations were spun off in April 2020 to form Carrier Global Corporation, an independent entity focused on building technologies including HVAC and fire safety. This separation allowed Kidde to operate within Carrier's portfolio alongside brands like Edwards and LenelS2, fostering synergies in intelligent building solutions while maintaining its core focus on fire detection and suppression. The transition preserved Kidde's market leadership in residential fire protection, with UTC Fire & Security's combined revenues exceeding $7 billion annually by the late 2010s.

Recent developments and ownership changes (2020s)

In 2021, Kidde initiated a voluntary of approximately 226,000 TruSense smoke alarms and combination smoke/ alarms due to a of to alert consumers to a , stemming from sensitivity issues in certain models such as the Series 2040, 2050, 2060, and 2070. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall on May 6, 2021, recommending that consumers replace the affected units free of charge to ensure reliable fire detection. Kidde-Fenwal, a focused on systems, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on May 15, 2023, primarily due to mounting liabilities from PFAS-related litigation over its historical production and distribution of aqueous film-forming (AFFF) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The company reported that the ongoing lawsuits had already incurred $6 million in legal costs in 2023 alone, with over 4,400 PFAS claims filed against it by that point. In October 2024, parent company reached a $730 million settlement with Kidde-Fenwal and claimants to resolve these PFAS disputes, paving the way for the subsidiary's wind-down under bankruptcy proceedings. A significant ownership shift occurred in December 2024 when Corporation completed the $3 billion sale of its commercial and residential fire business to an affiliate of , establishing the independent entity Kidde Global Solutions. The transaction, initially announced in August 2024 and finalized on December 2, 2024, allowed Kidde to operate as a standalone company focused on innovation, with Carrier using the net proceeds of approximately $2.2 billion for other corporate priorities. This divestiture marked Kidde's transition from conglomerate integration to focused ownership amid evolving market demands. In 2025, Kidde Global Solutions pursued several expansion initiatives to bolster its product portfolio and public engagement. The company launched the EXCELLENCE Series addressable notification devices in October 2025, enhancing its intelligent fire detection systems with advanced optical sensing and pluggable connectors for improved installation efficiency and false alarm reduction. Complementing this, Kidde expanded its Cause For Alarm campaign on October 7, 2025, introducing an augmented reality fire safety tool to educate families on home escape planning and donate $1 per alarm purchased at participating U.S. retailers through November 2025 toward fire safety resources. Additionally, in September 2025, Kidde-Fenwal recommitted to eco-friendly fire suppression technologies, highlighting the NATURA Inert Gas System as a sustainable alternative to chemical agents, which reduces oxygen levels to extinguish fires without residue or environmental harm. PFAS-related legal scrutiny persisted into late 2025 within Kidde-Fenwal's case, with a federal bankruptcy court expressing doubts in over the company's failure to adequately disclose a comprehensive list of AFFF claims and liabilities. On October 6, 2025, Judge Laurie Selber Silverstein questioned proposed revisions to the Chapter 11 plan's disclosure statement, emphasizing the need for greater transparency on potential environmental estimated in the billions. State attorneys general, including those from and , continued to object to aspects of the bankruptcy deal, arguing it insufficiently addressed successor liability for PFAS contamination.

Products and services

Residential fire safety products

Kidde offers a range of residential products designed to detect, suppress, and facilitate escape from home fires, emphasizing ease of use and compliance with safety standards like those from the (NFPA). These products include and (CO) alarms, fire extinguishers, escape ladders, and interconnected smart devices, all tailored for consumer installation in homes to enhance family protection. Smoke and CO alarms form the core of Kidde's residential detection lineup, with models featuring 10-year sealed batteries to eliminate frequent replacements and ensure long-term reliability. The Worry-Free series, such as the 20SD10 model, provides battery-powered detection with a sealed lithium battery lasting the full 10 years, suitable for bedrooms and hallways. Advanced photoelectric sensing in models like the 20SD10-V reduces nuisance alarms from cooking while providing voice alerts that specify the danger, such as "Fire!" or "Carbon Monoxide!", aiding quicker responses in homes. Combo units, including the P4010DCS-WF, detect both and CO with 10-year sealed batteries and interconnectivity, allowing alarms to sound throughout the house when one is triggered, a feature recommended for multi-level residences. For fire suppression in homes, Kidde's ABC multipurpose dry chemical extinguishers are engineered for common residential hazards like grease fires, electrical malfunctions, and flammable liquids. The Pro 110 model, a compact 2.5-pound unit, is ideal for or vehicles with a 10-second discharge time and pressure gauge for readiness checks, rated for Class A (ordinary combustibles), B (liquids), and C (electrical) fires. Larger options like the Pro 340 (5-pound) suit garages or utility rooms, offering extended reach with a metal valve assembly for durability and easy wall mounting. These extinguishers incorporate tube technology for consistent flow, and Kidde advises annual professional inspections to maintain effectiveness in home settings. Escape aids complement detection and suppression, with Kidde's ladders providing rapid egress from upper floors without tools. The 2-story KL-2S ladder extends 13 feet, attaches to window sills 5.5 to 11 inches deep, and supports up to 1,000 pounds with anti-slip rungs and flame-resistant straps for safe, tangle-free deployment in residential emergencies. The 3-story KL-3S model similarly hooks to windows with a 1,000-pound load capacity, featuring metal rungs for stability and a single-use to prevent reuse risks. blankets, available in select markets for smothering small fires by cutting off oxygen, are compact and wall-mountable, though primarily emphasized in European residential guidelines. Smart interconnected alarms extend Kidde's residential offerings into , enabling remote monitoring and integration with systems like Ring. The P4010ACSAQ-WF combines smoke, CO, and air quality detection with connectivity, sending alerts to smartphones via the Kidde app and interconnecting with other units for whole-home coverage. The Ring Smart Smoke + CO Alarm (RGCUAR-RW) syncs with Amazon's ecosystem, providing voice announcements and customizable notifications, ideal for tech-enabled households. In 2025, Kidde integrated (AR) technology into its Cause For Alarm campaign to educate on residential product use and testing. The free AR fire safety tool, accessible at kiddesafetysimulator.com, simulates home fire scenarios for virtual drills, guiding users on alarm placement, extinguisher operation, and escape planning to improve response times. Launched in October 2025, it supports the campaign's goal of donating up to $1 million in alarms to underserved communities when consumers purchase qualifying residential products through .

Commercial and industrial systems

Kidde's commercial and industrial systems are designed to safeguard , minimizing downtime and damage in high-value environments such as data centers, manufacturing facilities, and warehouses. These systems integrate advanced detection, suppression, and notification technologies to address diverse risks, from electrical hazards to flammable liquids, while complying with international standards like NFPA and UL listings. Building on its legacy of early CO2-based industrial suppression innovations from the , Kidde has evolved to offer environmentally considerate and efficient solutions for modern commercial applications. Clean agent suppression systems, utilizing agents like FM-200 (HFC-227ea) and ™ Novec™ 1230, provide rapid extinguishment without residue, making them ideal for protecting sensitive electronics in data centers and server rooms. These total flood systems discharge the agent to reduce oxygen levels and interrupt the of , achieving suppression in under 10 seconds while remaining safe for occupied spaces due to their low . FM-200 systems are widely deployed for their cost-effectiveness and compatibility with legacy infrastructure, whereas Novec 1230 offers a lower , aligning with goals in tech-heavy industries. For industrial hazards involving flammable liquids and gases, such as those in oil and gas facilities, Kidde provides water mist and suppression systems tailored to high-risk operations. Water mist systems, like the HI-FOG® series, generate fine droplets that cool surfaces, displace oxygen, and block radiant heat, effectively controlling fires in confined spaces without excessive . Complementary systems deliver expanded aqueous film-forming (AFFF) to smother fires, preventing re-ignition in storage tanks and processing areas; these are engineered for proportioning foam concentrate with water supplies to ensure uniform coverage. In 2025, Kidde expanded its EXCELLENCE Series with addressable notification devices, enhancing building fire alarm integration for commercial structures. These devices include audible horns, visual strobes, and combination units that support intelligent addressable protocols, allowing precise zoning and remote monitoring to expedite evacuations in large-scale buildings. Integrated detection networks, comprising multi-sensor detectors and control panels, further support warehouses and plants by providing scalable, networked coverage for early threat identification across expansive areas. This connectivity enables centralized management, reducing response times and operational disruptions.

Aerospace and specialty applications

Kidde Technologies has developed specialized for aerospace applications, focusing on replacing ozone-depleting Halon 1301 agents in critical areas such as cargo holds and s while ensuring compliance with (FAA) standards. These systems utilize environmentally friendly alternatives like the KSA™ solid generator, which provides efficient fire extinguishing without residue and meets FAA performance criteria for units (APUs) and engine compartments. For cargo holds, Kidde's halon bottle systems have been subject to FAA airworthiness directives to maintain safety, with ongoing transitions to non-Halon suppressants such as HFC-125 or powder s that achieve equivalent fire knockdown times under high-altitude conditions. In , Kidde's fire detection technologies have been integrated into high-profile platforms, including the B-2 Spirit bomber since the . These systems feature microprocessor-based control electronics and thermal sensing elements that monitor for overheat and threats in engine and dry bay areas, enabling rapid response in stealth and extreme operational environments. The detection units, such as those with NSN 04-035733-211-400, provide reliable validation of threats before suppression activation, contributing to mission readiness for U.S. assets. For specialty transport sectors, Kidde offers tailored suppressant solutions for marine vessels and rail applications, emphasizing clean agents that minimize environmental impact and downtime. In marine settings, engineered systems using FM-200 or CO2 protect engine rooms and spaces on ships from fires, with U.S. approvals for corrosion-resistant designs. benefits from automatic fire suppression systems like the AFSS, which deploy dry chemical agents in and car compartments to address electrical and hazards, supporting fleet operations in transit environments. Following the formation of Kidde Global Solutions in December 2024 through the acquisition of Carrier's fire business by , the company has invested in sustainable fire agents for , prioritizing low-global-warming-potential alternatives to traditional suppressants. These efforts include development of eco-friendly protection systems adaptable for applications, aligning with industry shifts toward greener solutions as of 2025.

Operations

Headquarters and facilities

Kidde's headquarters are located at 1016 Corporate Park Drive in , following a relocation in the 2020s from its prior headquarters in , under Corporation. This Mebane facility serves as the central hub for corporate operations, including product development oversight and a major that expanded in 2012 to support for fire safety equipment across . The aerospace-related facility in , at 4200 Airport Drive NW, is operated by Kidde Technologies, a division of , focused on and & development for and suppression systems. This AS9100-certified site handles the design, assembly, and testing of specialized components for commercial and applications, ensuring compliance with stringent standards. Kidde's North American production is further supported by its plant in the area at 340 Four Valley Drive in , , which assembles alarms, extinguishers, and related products for residential and commercial markets. Across these sites, key functions include product assembly lines, dedicated testing laboratories for performance validation, and integrated distribution networks to facilitate efficient operations. These facilities underscore Kidde's historical U.S. roots in innovation dating back to 1917. As of December 2024, Kidde operates as part of Kidde Global Solutions, an independent company focused on and safety.

Global presence

Kidde maintains a significant international footprint, operating in over 100 countries through a network of subsidiaries, regional offices, and authorized distributors that support the design, installation, and maintenance of systems. This global structure enables the company to serve diverse markets, including residential, commercial, industrial, and aerospace sectors, with localized support for product deployment and compliance. Key subsidiaries include Kidde Safety Limited, which oversees operations across multiple European nations, and Kidde , a cornerstone of the company's European presence. The establishment of British operations dates back to 1931, when Walter Kidde Ltd was founded as a supplier of equipment, marking an early step in the company's international expansion beyond the . Today, these operations encompass manufacturing facilities in the , producing fire detection, suppression, and alarm products to serve domestic and export markets. European activities are further bolstered by subsidiaries such as Kidde-Deugra in and Kidde France, facilitating tailored solutions for regional industrial and needs. In the region, Kidde has expanded through subsidiaries like Pty Limited and Limited, with manufacturing capabilities in via its GST subsidiary's facility in , which produces intelligent electronics. These operations ensure compliance with local regulatory frameworks, such as Australian standards for and Chinese requirements for smart detection technologies. To address varying international requirements, Kidde adapts its product lines to meet specific regional standards, including European Union fire regulations like EN 14604 for smoke alarms and Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 for construction products. This approach allows seamless integration into local building codes and enhances market penetration across continents.

Innovations and awards

Key technological advancements

Kidde's early contributions to technology began with the development of the first integrated detection and (CO2) extinguishing system in 1918, designed specifically for use on board ships to automatically detect and deploy CO2 to suppress fires. This system represented a pioneering advancement in automated , combining detection and suppression into a single unit, which improved response times in maritime environments where rapid intervention was critical. In 1924, Kidde introduced the first portable , a compact design that allowed for manual deployment in various settings, marking a shift toward accessible, handheld suppression tools. This innovation evolved over decades, with Kidde later incorporating dry chemical agents into portable extinguishers, which provided more versatile suppression for Class A, B, and C fires by interrupting the of flames without leaving conductive residues. A significant milestone in residential came in 2012 with the launch of the Worry-Free series of sealed smoke alarms, featuring a 10-year lithium battery lifespan that eliminated the need for frequent replacements and reduced maintenance issues. These alarms utilized photoelectric sensing technology for early detection of smoldering fires and included features like Smart Hush to silence nuisance alarms, enhancing user compliance and reliability in homes. In 2025, Kidde advanced education through the "Prepare. Plan. Practice." (AR) tool, a free digital simulator that allows users to practice home drills interactively via mobile devices, simulating real-time scenarios to build preparedness. In September 2025, KiddeFenwal announced accelerated investments in future-proof fire suppression technologies, focusing on alternatives to phasing-out agents like Novec 1230 to maintain eco-friendly clean agent systems for sensitive environments.

Recognitions and rankings

Kidde's products undergo rigorous testing and to ensure compliance with industry standards. All major residential and commercial products, including smoke alarms, detectors, and fire extinguishers, carry UL listings from Underwriters Laboratories, verifying their performance and safety under UL 217 and UL 2034 standards. In the sector, Kidde's detection and suppression systems receive FAA approvals through airworthiness directives and supplemental type certificates, enabling their integration into commercial and for reliable fire protection. The company has earned several industry awards highlighting its innovation and market leadership. In 2020, Kidde's Optica Smoke Detectors received the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Product Showcase Award for advancing detection technology in fire safety systems. Kidde was recognized as IMARK's Supplier of the Year in 2021, based on exceptional sales growth and performance in the electrical and distribution sector. Additionally, in 2023, Kidde was included on Fast Company's list of Brands That Matter, acknowledging its century-long contributions to public safety and brand trust. Kidde's commitment to has also garnered recent acclaim. The 2025 expansion of its Cause For Alarm campaign, which introduced an tool for interactive training at CauseForAlarm.org, has been praised for enhancing community preparedness during National Fire Prevention Month. That same year, Kidde partnered with for a recognition ceremony honoring firefighters, further elevating its role in public awareness initiatives.

Controversies and recalls

Product safety issues

In February 2015, Kidde recalled approximately 4.6 million disposable extinguishers equipped with black plastic valves due to a risk that the valve could fail to discharge properly during use, potentially leaving users unable to extinguish a . The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported 16 incidents of failure to discharge, including one minor injury from a , prompting the recall of 31 affected models sold primarily for residential and light commercial use between 2005 and 2014. This issue escalated in November 2017 when Kidde expanded its to include about 37.8 million non-rechargeable fire extinguishers with plastic handles or push-button mechanisms, manufactured from 1973 to 2017, due to risks of clogging, nozzle detachment, or requiring excessive force to operate, which could result in impact injuries or failure to suppress fires. The CPSC documented approximately 400 incidents, including 16 injuries and one reported death in 2014 during a fire following a crash where emergency responders could not discharge the extinguisher, affecting 134 models widely distributed in homes, vehicles, and marine settings. In May 2021, Kidde recalled roughly 226,000 TruSense and combination / alarms from model series 2040, 2050, 2060, and 2070, sold between May 2019 and September 2020, because of potential sensitivity failures that could cause delayed detection or complete failure to alert users to , compromising . The CPSC noted no reported incidents or injuries at the time, but the defect stemmed from variations affecting performance in these battery-operated units. These recalls involved significant CPSC oversight, with remediation programs offering free replacements or refunds through Kidde's and authorized dealers to ensure access to functional devices. The extinguisher issues also led to legal actions, including a 2021 U.S. Department of against Kidde, resulting in a $12 million for allegedly delaying and understating recall scopes despite known defects since at least 2014. Multiple class-action s followed, alleging design defects and inadequate warnings that endangered users, with settlements providing compensation for affected s. Earlier in the , Kidde conducted smaller recalls, such as one in 2005 for certain 10-pound industrial models with faulty valves, highlighting ongoing concerns with components. In May 2023, Kidde-Fenwal, Inc., a of Corporation specializing in , filed for Chapter 11 protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, primarily due to mounting lawsuits over its production and distribution of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The company faced over 4,000 claims alleging that PFAS from its AFFF products contaminated sources, , and near military bases, airports, and training sites, leading to risks such as cancer and environmental damage. Litigation costs had escalated to approximately $6 million in the first half of 2023 alone, prompting the filing to restructure amid these liabilities. The bankruptcy proceedings drew significant scrutiny in October 2025, when a federal bankruptcy judge in Delaware questioned Kidde-Fenwal's failure to disclose a comprehensive list of AFFF-related claims in its Chapter 11 plan disclosures. On October 17, the court expressed doubts about the adequacy of the disclosures, highlighting potential risks to creditors and claimants. By October 21, the judge narrowed an order requiring the company to provide more detailed information on the AFFF claims, aiming to ensure transparency in the ongoing resolution process. This episode underscored ongoing challenges in managing the scope of PFAS liabilities, with state attorneys general, including those from Connecticut and Delaware, objecting to proposed settlements that they argued shielded Carrier from billions in potential damages. In October 2024, Carrier Global agreed to a $730 million settlement to resolve PFAS-related claims against Kidde-Fenwal, including $540 million to the company for creditors and $190 million directly to plaintiffs, as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. In response to these environmental concerns, Kidde-Fenwal has committed to transitioning away from PFAS-containing agents following its sale to Capital Partners and emergence as a standalone entity in July 2024. The company has accelerated development of PFAS-free alternatives, such as the NATURA™ Inert Gas System, which uses environmentally responsible inert gases with zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and (GWP), avoiding traditional chemical-based suppressants. In September 2025, Kidde-Fenwal reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable fire suppression technologies, emphasizing investments in eco-friendly solutions for industrial and applications to mitigate long-term environmental impacts. Beyond PFAS litigation, Kidde-Fenwal has encountered other legal challenges, including patent disputes related to its and suppression technologies. For instance, historical cases have involved allegations of infringement on patents for fire systems, though recent proceedings remain limited in public detail. Additionally, the 2023 bankruptcy-initiated sale process for the company underwent regulatory reviews, including antitrust considerations under U.S. Department of oversight, to evaluate competitive impacts in the market.

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