As the weather cools down, you're probably getting ready for a few final cookouts and bracing for fall tax bills. But before you fire up the barbecue or open that official-looking envelope, pause. A massive grill brush recall and a clever property tax scam made headlines this week. It's a good time for a quick safety audit.
The hazard hanging on your grill
Let's talk about wire grill brushes. Regulators just expanded a massive recall of Cuisinart brushes because the metal bristles can snap off, stick to your grates, and end up in your food. It's the kind of hidden backyard hazard that ruins a weekend cookout. The manufacturer knows of three cases where people swallowed the stray wires and needed medical treatment, according to NBC News.
Because these tools were sold at major retailers like Walmart and Amazon for years, there's a good chance you have one hanging on your patio right now. Take a quick walk outside and check the handle. If you own an affected model, stop using it immediately. You can contact the company for a cash refund or take a store credit worth an extra 20 percent.
What's happening in your state
California: Property scammers are getting specific. Los Angeles County officials are warning residents about a fake IRS document called Form 1098-SR that promises to freeze your property taxes. Fraudsters are pushing this through online videos and aggressive phone calls, mostly targeting seniors who want a break on their rising bills. The pitch sounds official. It's also entirely fake. The federal government doesn't determine, cap, or freeze local assessments at all, as reported by the Palisades News. State law governs those rules. The IRS has absolutely nothing to do with your county tax bill.
Georgia: While Californians dodge fake tax forms, residents in the City of Dalton face a very real, if rare, tax hike. Local leaders tentatively adopted a rate that increases property taxes over the rollback rate for only the second time in 24 years.
The city is holding public hearings this month to discuss the change before it becomes final. The good news for homeowners is that for a property with a fair market value of $275,000, the proposed bump is relatively small, per a City of Dalton, GA release.
The bottom line for you
- Ditch the wire brushes entirely. Even beyond this specific recall, metal bristles are a known hazard. It's probably time to upgrade your outdoor appliances and cleaning tools to a safer coil or steam brush.
- Never trust a cold call about your local tax assessment. If you want to lower your bill, look into legitimate local relief programs rather than federal promises. You can review our guide to property taxes and home finances to see what you actually qualify for.
- If you live on the West Coast, take a moment to review your California seasonal checklist. Make sure your home is buttoned up and your actual tax exemptions are filed directly with your county assessor.