A safety scare has forced Microsoft to recall and replace 14.1 million Xbox power cords across the world after incidents of the consoles catching fire.

The software giant said that it was making the move to voluntarily replace the power leads as "a precautionary measure and out of concern for consumer safety".

The replacement power cords are designed to protect consumers and their Xbox consoles from what Microsoft describes as "rare electrical component failures that can pose a fire hazard".

The company added that fewer than one in 10,000 consoles have experienced these component failures.

"In almost all instances, any damage caused by these failures was contained within the console itself or limited to the tip of the power cord at the back of the console," Microsoft stated.

However, it also revealed that in 30 consoles worldwide these failures are reported to have caused "minor injury or minor property damage".

In seven instances, customers reported sustaining a minor burn to their hands. In 23 instances, customers reported smoke damage, or minor damage to a carpet or entertainment centre.

Microsoft said that, in all regions except Europe, Xbox consoles manufactured before 23 October 2003 require a replacement power cord. In Europe, consoles manufactured before 13 January 2004 require a replacement power cord.

"This is a preventative step we are choosing to take despite the rarity of these incidents," said Robbie Bach, senior vice president of the home and entertainment division at Microsoft.

"We regret the inconvenience, but believe that offering consumers a free replacement is the responsible thing to do."

To order a replacement cord, consumers should go to www.xbox.com and click on the link marked 'Power Cord Replacement for Xbox'.

Replacement cords will arrive two to four weeks after the order is placed. While waiting for the new cord to arrive, Microsoft warned consumers that they should turn off their Xbox consoles when not in use.

Customers who cannot access the internet can call this UK number: 0800 028 9276.