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All product recalls associated with AMF Voit.
Total Recalls
1000
Past Year
1000
Class I (Serious)
78
Most Recent
Jan 2026
Data from FDA, USDA, CPSC, and NHTSA public records. Recall counts vary by company size, industry, and reporting practices. Always check official sources for current information.
Spear Guns Recalled by AMF Voit NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 1980 Release # 80-026 Commission Urges Consumers To Participate In Recall Of Potentially Defective Spear Guns WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21, 1980) -- Following a very low rate of consumer return of potentially hazardous aquatic spear guns the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and AMF Voit, Inc., are repeating public warning of the hazard and urging consumers to participate in a free repair program. Only one per cent (986) of the estimated 97,300 potentially hazardous spear guns have been returned to the manufacturer for free repairs since the recall was announced more than a year ago. These spear guns may contain defective triggers and as a result may fire accidentally even though their safety catches are engaged. Although AMF Voit has received 13 consumer complaints about this malfunction, neither CPSC nor the company has received any reports of deaths or serious injuries. The "carbine" spear guns being recalled were sold nationwide in specialty stores from 1967 to 1979 under the AMF Voit, Inc. label. The company's name can be found on the left side of the grip of the two models being recalled. One of the recalled models may be identified by a 17-inch aluminum barrel while the other features a 26-inch aluminum barrel. Both models have black plastic handles. (Sketches of these two models are attached.) Spear guns models G-6 and G-7, manufactured since May, 1979, are not being recalled and are easily identified if a serial number is affixed to the handle or barrel. Any gun which is equipped with a serial number is not involved in the recall. Sears, Roebuck and Company also marketed 1,400 of the spear guns under its private label between 1970 and 1973. These models may be identified by a 17-inch aluminum barrel and the model number 436.573140 displayed along with the Sears name on the left side of an orange-colored plastic hand grip. Consumers who own the AMF or Sears models should disassemble the unloaded spear gun handle assembly (which includes the grip and the trigger) from the gun barrel by removing the screw holding the two parts together. To obtain free replacement parts, the gun handle and the shaft of the spear should be mailed to the nearest AMF Voit outlet listed below. All postage costs will be reimbursed fully; parts should be mailed by insured fourth-class parcel post, with a return receipt requested. Consumers should NOT return the gun barrel, the spear point or the shock lines. AMF Voit centers accepting parts for replacement are: AMF VOIT, INC. 3801 S. Harbor Blvd. Santa Ana, CA 92704 714/546-4220 AMF VOIT, INC 29 Essex Street Maywood, NJ 07607 201/343-2450 AMF VOIT, INC. 2601 Lively Blvd. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 312/595-7370 AMF VOIT, INC. 71 Dawson Road Guelph, Ontario, Canada 519/822-1576 Although Sears has received no consumer complaints, Sears stores nationwide will accept returns of the Sears' labeled model for modification by AMF Voit.
Children's Outdoor Water Toy Corrected by Wham-O NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 10, 1980 Release # 80-007 Wham-O To Correct Potential Hazard In Children's Outdoor Water Toy WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 10)-- A program to correct more than 100,000 outdoor "Fun Fountain" water toys which may cause serious injuries to children is being conducted by the Wham-O Mfg. Co. of San Gabriel, California. The firm, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, voluntarily will supply free corrective water flow control valve inserts for its "Fun Fountain" toys produced from 1977 through November, 1979. The toy consists of a clown hat and head which attaches onto the end of a garden hose so that the hat rises in the air when water flows through the clown's head. Children may be inclined to peer into the water outlet and the stream of water could cause serious eye injuries, especially in communities with high water pressure. CPSC so far has been informed of two consumer complaints since June, 1979, involving a six-year-old boy and a seven-year- old boy who suffered eye injuries when struck at close distance by water emitted from the "Fun Fountain" toys. The Wham-O "Fun Fountain" water toys were sold nationwide in toy stores and variety stores for approximately $10.00 each. The model number of the toy, #237, is imprinted on the toy's package. According to the company, the potential hazard has been corrected on all "Fun Fountain" toys manufactured since December, 1979 when the toys began to be produced with a water flow control valve to decrease and control the water flow. Such new editions are readily identifiable since they are equipped with a blue hose connector (the older design has a red connector) at the base of the clown head. The words "Important Notice" and "Safety Check List" also are imprinted on the new toy cartons. If the hose connector is red but contains a blue insert which is clearly visible, then it also has been corrected and is equipped with a water flow control valve. To correct the potential hazard in "Fun Fountain" toys manufactured before December, 1979, parents are urged to go to the place of purchase to receive a free water flow control valve insert, or they may contact Wham-O directly to receive a free valve insert (Customer Service Dept. 7, 835 East El Monte Street, San Gabriel, California, 91778). Consumers also may telephone Wham-O toll-free at 800/423-4174 (in California, call collect at 213/287-9681). The water flow control valve snaps easily into the hose connector and once installed will remain firmly within the connector, according to the company.
Power Mowers Modified by Sunbeam NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-052 Power Mowers To Be Modified WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct.1) -- The Sunbeam Outdoor Co., has instituted a program to modify approximately 8,900 electric lawn mowers which may pose electrical shock hazards to users. The program is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Sunbeam Outdoor Company, of Manning, South Carolina, is a division of the Sunbeam Corporation. The program applies only to models 3227 and 3228 "Sunbeam" electrical mowers. They have been sold nationwide since 1978 at a retail price of approximately $140. The mowers feature handles which can be reversed over the top of the motor enabling consumers to change mowing directions without turning around the entire machine. As the position of the handle is changed, the power cord may get caught between the handle and a bracket which mounts the handle to the mower. This could cause sufficient abrasion to expose electrical wires. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should not use these mowers until they have installed a small metal part to eliminate the potential hazard. The part can be obtained free of charge, along with installation instructions, by contacting: Department 91B, Sunbeam Outdoor Company, Division of Sunbeam Corporation, P.O. Box 430, Kingstree Highway East, Manning, South Caroling 29102, telephone 803/435-8444. To verify model numbers, consumers may contact CPSC's toll- free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Fluorescent Lights Recalled by American Electric NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 1979 Release # 79-041 Fluorescent Lights Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 24) -- The American Electric Corporation, of Culver City, California, today voluntarily issued a second bulletin recalling more than 20,000 "Brite Bar" fluorescent light fixtures because of a possible electrical fire hazard. This announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The firm had been advised by one of its two power cord suppliers that the power cord could create a risk of fire if damaged, altered or used in a manner contrary to the instructions enclosed with the unit. Since the company's first recall announcement (in April, 1978) about 40,000 of approximately 63,800 lights manufactured with the potentially defective cord have been retrieved, primarily from distributors and dealers. However, the firm and the Commission believe that additional notice will facilitate the recovery of many of those lights still in use. The product under recall is the model 9500 "Brite Bar" slim- line, fluorescent light fixture. It is 25 inches long and includes a six-foot cord which is stamped (in red) at intervals with the warning, "Caution: Do not cut or coil." Model 9500 Fixtures Which Do Not Display This Warning On The Cord Are Equipped With A New Cord Free From The Defect And Are Not Being Recalled. Safety tests conducted by CPSC engineers have revealed a design defect in the power cord, which if coiled or folded during use, may cause the insulation to melt, exposing wires which could create a fire hazard. The Commission has received reports of two instances in which the cord allegedly started fires in consumers' homes. There have been no reported injuries. The lights being recalled were manufactured from September through December, 1977, were marketed in 28 states (list of states attached) and sold at retail for about $10. Consumers should immediately stop using these lights and return them for a free replacement or full refund (including postage costs) to American Electric Corporation, 9937 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, California, 90230; Attention: June Polk, Consumer Relations Manager. Anyone who wants a refund instead of a new light must also include proof-of-purchase indicating the retail price paid for the product. To verify the model number on these fixtures, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772. States Which Marketed "Brite Bar" Lights Alabama Arizona California Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Indiana Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Minnesota Michigan Mississippi Nevada New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania South Dakota Tennessee Texas Washington info@cpsc.gov.
February 5, 1979 Release # 79-007 Toy Cork Gun Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 5) -- Eagle Family Discount Stores, Inc., Opa Locka, Fla., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today warned consumers that about 5,844 double-barreled toy cork shotguns sold in their stores during the 1976 and 1977 Christmas seasons may present a hazard of eye injury to a young child. Consumers who have bought one of these toys should not let their children play with it, and should return it to their nearest Eagle Family Discount Store for a full refund. CPSC believes that serious eye injury could occur if a child abuses the toy by removing the muzzle end of the gun barrel, exposing the ends of two metal rods covered with plastic plunger caps. These caps can be removed by a force of three or four pounds, leaving the ends of the metal rods completely exposed. If the toy gun is cocked and discharged, the exposed ends of the metal rods could then be propelled forward into a child's face or eyes. The double-barreled toy cork shotgun retailed for about $1.27 in Eagle Family Discount Stores located in Florida and in a few stores in Alabama and Georgia, according to Eagle. The words, "Gun Fighter," appear in silver on each side of the toy gun. The stock is colored brown, the gun barrels are black and the cocking lever is chrome-colored plastic. The toy gun was made in Hong Kong or Taiwan, according to Eagle, and was identified as product no. 97-S-510,, which appears on the toy gun's package. To date, CPSC is aware of one incident of eye injury occurring when a three and one-half year-old boy apparently shot the toy gun into his eyes and was struck by the unprotected metal rod. Although the injury occurred to a three and one-half year old, the product's package contains, according to Eagle, a cautionary statement that the toy shotgun is not recommended for children under five years of age. To verify the product number, consumers can call the toll-free CPSC Hotline on 800/638-2772
December 12, 1978 Release # 78-104 Armour Replaces Safety Caps On Thyroid Tablets WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 12) -- Armour Pharmaceutical Company and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced that Armour will replace the child-resistant caps on approximately 140,000 100-tablet bottles of prescription thyroid tablets. Efficacy and safety of the tablets themselves are not in question and no recall is involved. The firm voluntarily initiated the cap replacement program, which involves only those packages held in its warehouses, after Commission testing indicated that some adults might be unable to properly reclose the safety feature of the present package during use in the home. Regulations under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act currently require that at least 90% of those adults tested be able, not only to open the packages, but also to properly close them to protect young children from accidentally swallowing the contents. In addition to replacing caps on current inventory, Armour plans to continue its on-going safety packaging program to meet its own standards of quality and to assure compliance with CPSC regulations. In presenting this matter to the Commission, the staff acknowledged that upon receipt of the results of Commission testing, Armour promptly stopped distribution of the product in question and took immediate action to investigate and correct the problem
November 22, 1978 Release # 78-094 Amana Freezers WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 22)-- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Amana Refrigeration, Inc., Amana, Iowa, today announced that 96,000 owners of Amana side-by-side refrigerator-freezers made between February 1969 and September 1974, have been contacted by the company and given instructions for modifying the units to eliminate any possibility of shock hazard. In its first announcement of the possible defect made jointly with Amana in August 1977, CPSC described the voluntary repair program for about 240,000 units. According to Amana, it has exhausted all available lists of consumers to contact concerning the modification program and wants the remaining owners to get in touch with the company immediately. The Amana models to be modified are SR17, SR19, SR22, SR25, SD19, SD22, and SD25, whose serial numbers begin with the letters IS, E, B, L, A or C. The appliances in question can be positively identified by checking the model and serial number on the serial plate located behind the removable black grille at the lower front of the unit. The possibility of a shock hazard is caused by a defective hinge wire assembly which powers the butter-keeper heater and anti-sweat heater. CPSC has learned of 41 shock incidents to date. Anyone owning one of the 144,000 units that have not yet been modified should immediately furnish model, serial number, name and address to Amana Refrigeration, Inc., Amana, Iowa 52204. If consumers are unable to contact Amana directly they should call, with the same information, CPSC's toll-free hotline at 800/638-2772
Smoke Detectors Recalled by BRK Electronics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 6, 1978 Release # 78-089 Pittway-BRK Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 6) - The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced an agreement with the Pittway Corp., Northbrook, Ill., doing business as BRK Electronics, whereby Pittway has agreed to pay $100,000 in settlement of a civil penalty action which the Commission had decided to file. The agreement was negotiated between Pittway and CPSC staff and accepted by the Commission on Nov. 1. The Commission's action against Pittway concerned the company's alleged failure to report a defect in the BRK SS749 series smoke detectors which could cause such products to fail to operate and, in certain instances, to catch fire. The defect consisted of incorrectly rated resistors used in the SS749 smoke detectors produced by the BRK Electronics division of Pittway from March 1974 to September 26,1975. The Consumer Product Safety Act requires a manufacturer to notify the Commission immediately after learning of a defect which could create a substantial product hazard. In agreeing to a settlement of this matter, the Pittway Corporation has neither admitted nor denied violating the notification requirements of the Act. The company has cooperated in voluntarily carrying out an extensive program to recall the approximately 115,000 smoke detectors involved. Thus far, approximately 60,000 smoke detectors have been returned. The company has agreed to continue, and to intensify, its efforts to locate the remaining smoke detectors. The units subject to this recall are 110 volt AC-powered detectors which sold for a suggested retail price of $39.95. No battery-powered detectors are involved. Some models were manufactured with ordinary power cords (line cord) which plug into wall outlets, others have pigtail leads (hard wire) for installation directly into electric wiring. The detectors were marketed by BRK, American Machine & Foundry (AMF), I-T-E Imperial Corporation (I-T-E) and Sears, Roebuck & Company (Sears). They have the following model numbers: BRK SS749AC (hard wire) SS749ACS (hard wire) SS749L (line cord) SS749SL (line cord) AMF 2000AC (hard wire) 2000ACL (line cord) I-T-E ITOl-AC (hard wire) Sears 9-57049 (hard wire) 9-57047 (line cord) 9-57048 (line cord) Homeowners who suspect they have one of these smoke detectors are urged to check the model number on their unit. (Caution: Before inspecting-hard-wired detectors, electrical power to the unit must be turned off at the fuse box or circuit breaker; line cord detectors must be unplugged before inspection). Once the power is off o remove the cover and examine the side of the plastic base for a label which contains the model number. Anyone who has one of the Sears units affected by this recall should contact the nearest Sears store, which will arrange for inspection and free replacement of the unit containing the defect. People who believe they have any of the other detectors under recall should contact BRK to obtain a fact sheet, which gives very specific criteria for identifying potentially defective units, as well as replacement instructions. Additional information concerning the recall can be obtained by contacting BRK Electronics, 780 McClure Avenue, Aurora, Illinois 60507, Attention: Dennis Wm. Clair, Project 749 Director; or by calling toll-free 800/323-9005 and asking for the Project 749 Department.
June 5, 1978 Release # 78-042 CPSC Announces Replacement/Refitting Program For Electric Deep Fryers WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 5) -- American Electric Corp., Culver City, Calif., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today announced a voluntary replacement, refitting and refund program involving two styles of its model 7000 "Great American Frying Machine," mini electric deep fryers, because they may pose an electric shock hazard. CPSC is aware of one alleged electric shock incident involving each fryer style out of approximately 260,000 marketed. Both styles retailed for about $14.95, and were sold nationwide. This program does not apply to model 7000A fryers. One of the model 7000 styles has two white plastic carrying handles and stands on three black plastic legs. It is encased in a two-tone metal housing with a black top half and a gold bottom half. This style was marketed between January and April 1977. The company will replace this style free of charge. The second style is similar to the first, except it has a black plastic circular base and a single bucket-type plastic handle. This style was marketed between April and December 1977. The company will refit this style with additional electrical insulation. The company warns consumers to immediately stop using these mini fryers and return them to American Electric Corp., 9937 W. Jefferson Blvd., Culver City, Calif. 90230, Attention: Consumer Relations Department. CPSC believes that these two styles of mini deep fryers may, in some instances, pose a potential shock hazard because of the possibility that internal wiring may move during use and contact the metal casing. Any consumer who wants a refund for either style must send the unit to the American Electric Corp., along with proof of purchase indicating the price. Consumers will be reimbursed for postage costs. Consumers who desire information about this program should contact the Consumer Relations Department of the American Electric Corp. at the address cited above, or call the company at (213) 871-2222. To verify the model number, contact CPSC's toll-free hotline at (800) 638-2772
Crib Teething Rails Recalled by Okla Homer Smith Furniture NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 13, 1978 Release # 78-063 Crib Teething Rails Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 13) -- Okla Homer Smith Furniture Manufacturing Co., Inc., Ft. Smith, Ark., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today announced a recall and replacement program for plastic teething rails on about 70,000-80,000 full-sized baby cribs made by the company. The cribs have been sold under about 180 model numbers by numerous department and baby furniture stores across the country, including Sears, Roebuck and Co., and Montgomery Ward. A spokesman for the furniture company said the plastic teething rails may become brittle and pose a potential hazard of cracking when chewed. Broken pieces could be swallowed by a teething infant, become lodged in the windpipe or perhaps injure a baby in other ways. The cribs with the teething rails being recalled can be identified by the label, "OKLA HOMER SMITH FURNITURE MANUFACTURING CO., INC.," on the inside of the headboard near the bottom, and a numerical manufacturing date for the period June 1976 through December 1976, ink-stamped underneath the headboard. Only cribs made in the June-December 1976 timeframe carry the potentially defective teething rails. Since the model numbers are too voluminous to list here, it is important that consumers look for the manufacturer's label and the manufacture date to see if they own one of the cribs. All of the cribs are wooden, and almost all of the teething rails are white, with about one percent being red. The cribs ranged in price from $50-$100. New rail covers can be obtained free-of-charge by contacting the retailer, or Okla Homer Smith at P.O. Box 1148, Ft. Smith, Ark. 72902. Consumers should be prepared to provide their names, addresses, whether the cribs are single - or double-drop-side units, and whether teething rails are present on the end panels. Since the teething rails can crack at any time, anyone owning one of the cribs is entitled to free replacement rail covers even if the teething apparatus currently does not show signs of brittleness.
Water Wiggle Toy Recalled by Wham-O NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 13, 1978 Release # 78-020 Recall Of Wham-O Water Wiggle Toy WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 13) -- Wham-O Manufacturing Co., San Gabriel, Calif., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, today announced it is voluntarily stopping sale and recalling its "Water Wiggle" toy. Approximately 2 1/2 million of these toys have been sold throughout the United States over the past 17 years. The toy consists of a seven-foot plastic hose attached to an aluminum water-jet nozzle which is covered by a bell-shaped plastic head. The toy is designed to be attached to a garden hose for water fun. It retails for approximately $3.50. Wham-O stated that the recall is occasioned by the death of a four-year-old child in March 1978. The youngster was playing with some other children in his backyard with a dismantled "Water Wiggle," one from which the bell-shaped head had been removed or had come off. The exposed aluminum nozzle became lodged in his mouth and he drowned. Wham-O stated that it had no knowledge of how or why the toy was dismantled or how the nozzle became lodged in the child's mouth. A "Water Wiggle" was involved in a similar death of a three-year-old boy in 1975. Parents are advised not to allow their children to play with this product. Wham-O requests its retailers to remove all "Water Wiggles" from their shelves. Consumers who own a "Water Wiggle" toy should return the product to the retail store where purchased for a full refund or credit toward another product. Consumers requiring information concerning this recall should contact the Customer Service Department, Wham-O Manufacturing Company, 835 East El Monte Street, San Gabriel, California 91778 (toll free numbers 800/423-4592 and 800/423-4593) or call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission toll-free hotline 800/638-2772.
Pellet Pistols Repaired by Crosman Arms NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 2, 1978 Release # 78-015 Repair Program For Hazardous Pellet Pistols Announced WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 2) -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Crosman Arms, a division of the Coleman Company, Inc. announced today that certain single shot, pump-up pellet pistols may discharge accidentally due to inadequately tightened screws. Approximately 35,000 Model 1377 "American Classic" and Model 1322 "Medalist" pistols are suspect. They were distributed during 1977 and through January, 1978 and may have an improperly installed screw. These pistols operate normally at first but, repetitive use may cause the grip frame to loosen. If this occurs, there are three possible consequences: The pistol cannot be cocked and is inoperative unless manually held together. It can be cocked, but may discharge with the safety on. It can be cocked and may discharge without the trigger being pulled. To prevent this from happening, Crosman advises owners of the pistols to take their pistols to any Crosman authorized service center. A list of those service centers was provided with each pistol. The pistols should not be used until examined by a Crosman representative. All Model 1377 and 1322 pistols should be examined. Models produced after January, 1978 DO NOT contain the defect and are identified by an "R" stamped on the pistols and on the outside of the pistol carton. The service will be performed at no cost to the customer. For more information or for the name of the nearest service center, contact Crosman Arms, 980 Turk Hill Road, Fairport, New York 14450. Telephone (716) 223-6000.
January 3, 1978 Release # 78-001 Decorative Christmas Light Bulbs Recalled WASHINGTON, DC (Jan. 3) -- Le Gran Imports, Long Beach, California, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced that Le Gran Imports is voluntarily withdrawing from sale certain imported Christmas light replacement bulbs which were made in Taiwan. The Commission staff discovered a defect in some of the bulbs which could create a fire or shock hazard when electrical current is first applied. The defect is a thin strand of wire approximately l/4" in length or longer, which may protrude from the side of the bulb base or from the solder tip at the base of the bulb. Consumers who may have purchased these replacement bulbs are urged to immediately inspect them to see if a thin strand of wire is protruding from the side of the bulb base or from the solder tip at the base of the bulb. If a protruding wire is present, the bulb is defective and should not be used. The consumer should return the defective bulbs to the place of purchase for exchange or refund. The bulbs subject to the defect are identified on the package as Item No. LC-7005P size 7 l/2. The words "Christmas Lamps" and the name "Le Gran Imports" also appear on the package. The bulbs, sold five to a package, retailed for approximately $.75¢ or less and were sold nationwide. Le Gran Imports and the Commission warn that other distributors may have imported these same bulbs from Taiwan and may be selling them under different brand names. The consumer is cautioned to inspect all such replacement light bulbs before installing them in decorative lighting fixtures
December 21, 1977 Release # 77-128 WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 21) -- Market Research Imports (MRI), Incline Village, Nevada, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced that MRI is voluntarily withdrawing from sale certain imported Christmas light replacement bulbs which were made in Taiwan. MRI discovered a defect in some of the bulbs which could cause them to shatter with explosive force when electrical current is first applied. The defect is a thin strand of wire approximately l/8" to l/4" in length, which may protrude from the solder tip at the base of the bulb. Consumers who may have purchased these replacement bulbs are urged to immediately inspect them to see if a thin strand of wire is protruding from the solder tip at the base of the bulb. If a protruding wire is present, the bulb is defective. The defect may be safely removed by simply snipping off the protruding wire at the solder tip with a pair of. scissors or pliars with cutting edges. The consumer may also elect to return the defective bulbs to the place of purchase for exchange or refund. Two models of bulbs are subject to the defect, and are identified on the package as Item No. LC-9004 size 9 l/4, and Item No. LC-7004 size 7 l/2. The words "Replacement Bulbs" and the letters "MRI" also appear on the package. The bulbs, sold four to a package, retailed for approximately $1.00 or less and were sold nationwide. MRI and the Commission warn that other distributors may have imported these same bulbs from Taiwan and may be selling them under different brand names. The consumer is cautioned to inspect all such replacement light bulbs before installing them in decorative lighting fixtures
October 25, 1977 Release # 77-111 WASHINGTON, DC (Oct. 25) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with the Crosman Arms Company, a division of The Coleman Company, Inc., announced today the possibility of an inoperative safety in certain BB repeater pistols marketed under the Crosman name. About 25,000 model number 454 repeater pistols were manufactured and distributed nationwide during 1977 for recreational shooting. In a portion of these, an improper dimension on a receiver cover raises the possibility of the pistol discharging when the trigger is pulled with the safety engaged. The company is trying to locate the pistols involved in order to make modifications to eliminate the possible problem at no cost to the consumer. The pistols are identified as Crosman model 454, 16-shot, semi-automatic .177-caliber CO2 powered BB pistols. Suspect pistols can be identified by the first three digits of the serial number. The digits are 477, 577, 677, 777, or 877. The serial number is located on the left side of the pistol just below the name Crosman. Pistols bearing these serial numbers but with an "R" stamped on the right-hand side of the casting under the grip or below the barrel on the front of the receiver have been inspected by Crosman and do NOT contain the possible malfunction. Owners of the pistols are requested to take the pistol to the nearest authorized service center listed on a brochure which was included with the pistol when purchased. Owners may also write the Crosman Arms Company, 980 Turk Hill Road, Fairport, New York 14450 or call the Crosman service department at (716)223-6000
October 21, 1977 Release # 77-110 WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 21) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today warned consumers of a possible serious shock hazard from certain portable, immersible electric water heaters manufactured by the Ambory Corp., of Hazel Park, Mich. One of these heaters was reportedly involved in the recent electrocution of a 17-year-old girl in Little Fork, Minn. Sold to heat water in and around the home, the heaters are constructed of an exposed resistive heating element contained within a perforated metal case which permits water to contact the heating mechanism. This element is powered by electrical current from a standard electrical outlet. Potential for serious shock injuries, possibly resulting in electrocution, exists when water contacts the powered heating element. The four heaters in question are the "Ambory Special," "Jiffy, Jr. ," "Jiffy, Sr.," and "Ram." Distributed nationwide, they are sold primarily in hardware stores and tack shops. CPSC estimates that approximately 50,000 of the immersible water heaters are currently in consumers' hands. On October 20, the Commission authorized its staff to proceed against the Ambory Corp.9 to remove this alleged hazard from the marketplace. CPSC urges consumers to take extreme caution if they use one of these heaters. All four models are sold with instructions warning users not to touch the water container or the water itself while the heater is "on." Consumers are also directed to turn off the heater and unplug it before testing the water temperature. Anyone aware of any shock or electrocution incidents associated with an Ambory immersible electric water heater is urged to immediately call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772
October 3, 1977 Release # 77-103 WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 3) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in cooperation with the Kentucky Department of Human Resources and the American Printing House for the Blind, today announced the recall of 12 products which have excessive Lead content their paint. The products were produced and distributed nationwide by the American Printing House for the Blind in Louisville, Kentucky, and are intended for use by blind children. these products are not normally found on retail shelves, but are sold by mail order to consumers, school systems, and government agencies. A regulation under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act establishes a 0.5% permissible level for lead in paint to reduce risk of lead poisoning to children who may ingest paint chips or peelings. No injuries or illnesses have been reported associated with the products now being recalled. The products currently under recall are: l-0301 Biological Modelsl-0332 Land Forml-0340 Mitchell Form Setsl-0357 Sports Field fitl-0371 Shape Boardl-0382 Textured Blocksl-0372 Puzzle Form Board Kitl-0872 Sound Matching Board 11l-0108 Large U.S. Mapl-0109 Small U.S. Mapl-0329 Fractional Partsl-0359 Stokes Place Holder Persons who have these products should return them to the place of purchase for replacement or a full refund
September 2, 1977 Release # 77-096 WASHINGI'ON, D.C. (Sept. 2) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has culminated a major regulatory proceeding by issuing a final ban on lead-containing paint and on toys and furniture coated with such paint. This action was taken to reduce the risk of lead poisoning in children who may ingest paint chips or peelings. Until now, the maximum level of lead allowed in consumer paints has been 0.5 percent. CPSC has lowered this amount to 0.06 percent, a level conforming with the maximum permissible under the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act. This Act, administered primarily by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, prohibits application of lead-based paint to housing constructed or rehabilitated with federal assistance. Exempted from the new ban are mirrors backed with lead-containing paint which are part of articles of furniture, as well as artists' paints and related materials. Also exempted, provided they bear specified cautionary labeling, are certain agricultural and industrial coatings, touch-up coatings for appliances and lawn and garden equipment, graphic arts coatings, and certain coatings for powered model aircraft. This ban under the Consumer Product Safety Act will take effect 180 days after publication September 1 in the Federal Register and will apply to products manufactured on and after that date
Refrigerator Repaired by Amana Amana Refrigeration, Inc., Amana, Iowatoday announced voluntary corrective action program involving approximately 240,000 Amana side-by-side refrigerator/freezers manufactured between February 1969 and September 1974. Those refrigerator/freezers to be repaired are Amana model numbers SR 17, SR 19, SR 22, SR 25, SD 19, SD 22, and SD 25. The units can be further identified by checking the serial numbers on the serial plate located behind the removable black grill at the front of the refrigerator/freezer. Those serial numbers beginning with the letters S, E, B, L, A, or C are affected by this program. These refrigerator/freezers contain a hinge wire assembly in both of the doors which powers the heaters to the butter keeper and the anti-sweat device. The hinge wire may wear from frequent door openings causing contact between the bare wire and the inside of the door. There is a possibility that someone contacting or grasping both of the doors at the same time will be severely shocked. Forty-one shock incidents have been reported to the Commission. Amana is identifying and contacting owners of these refrigerator/freezers by letter in order to advise that modifications to eliminate this potential hazard should be made by the owner without delay. Until the written instructions are received consumers owning this product are advised to contact Amana through its toll-free number 800/553-6333 or write directly to Amana at: Amana Refrigeration Inc., Amana, Iowa 52204. In the event that Amana can not be reached, consumers are advised to contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Comnission's toll-free HOTLINE at 800/638-2772. Important Information About The Safety Of Your Side-By-Side Refrigerator Dear Amana Owner: Amana products have earned an excellent reputation for quality and safety. This comes in part through continued testing and monitoring of performance both in our plants and in the homes of our customers. However, some of the units, we have discovered, have had the wiring installed incorrectly. You may have one of these units. Excessive wear in these units can result in the electrical wires wearing out in the freezer or refrigerator door. Should this happen in either door, you may receive a severe electrical shock if you touch both door handles at the same time. The units involved were produced from February 1969 through September 1974, models beginning with the letters SR or SD. These are further identified by the letters S, E, B, L, A or C preceding the serial numbers. Our records indicate that you have one of these units. Please take the following steps at once. You should have no reluctance to perform these steps as they do not pose any hazard whatsoever. If you take these steps, you will eliminate any possibility of the shock hazard described above. In taking these steps, refer to the illustration. Disconnecting Hinge Wires 1. Remove Black Grille. 2. Unplug each plug. 3. Install Black plugs enclosed. 4. Add safety sticker to each wire. 5. Replace black grille.
Automatic Baseball Pitching Machines Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 1977 Release # 77-078 Warning Issued On Automatic Baseball Pitching Machines WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21) -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today issued an urgent warning to purchasers and users of certain automatic baseball pitching machines of the potential for severe bodily injury which the machines present. The machines are labeled as follows: "Blazer (Champ)," the "Professional," "Range, " "Pro-Trainer (Olympia)," and/or the "Dudley Automatic Pitching Machine." They were manufactured by Commercial Mechanisms, Inc., of Spring Park, Minnesota, and Kansas City, Missouri. The Commission has two reports of permanent and severe brain damage resulting from these machines. There are about 18 other injuries including brain concussions, severe lacerations and severe facial disfigurement. The Commission has authorized its staff to prepare the necessary papers for filing a complaint in U.S. District Court seeking recall of the machines and a declaration that they are an imminent hazard. About 5,000 of these machines have been distributed throughout the United States to schools, colleges, clubs, recreation departments, and other athletic organizations. They were manufactured from 1963 to 1975. The Commission is asking consumers who have access to or know the location of a machine to call tie U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll-free hotline 800/638-2772. The pitching machines have rotary pitching arms propelled by a gasoline engine or electric motor which powers a gear, pulley and tension spring mechanism. The revolving pitching arm which has no guard retains sufficient energy to "pitch" even though the machines are unplugged or disconnected. This energy can release the pitching arm after only slight vibration of the machine. The downward rotation of the pitching arm at high velocity has resulted in serious injuries to persons in its path. The pitching arm may also separate from the machine during operation, becoming an uncontrolled and potentially lethal missile. The machines may also fire pitches erratically in unintended directions. Consumers are alerted to follow these important safety precautions: Avoid placing any portion of the body within the arc or path through which the pitching arm revolves, unless the machine is disconnected from its power source and the coil spring is disengaged from the spring holder. Disengage the coil spring from the spring holder after use, and lock the machine in a location that will restrict unauthorized or unsupervised access. If the machine must be moved, disconnect the machine from its power source and disengage the coil spring from the spring holder before moving. Never store the pitching machine with the pitching arm in the 10:00 o'clock position. An Example of A Pitching Machine With An Unguarded Arm (Blazer "Little Champ" Model) Guardless