Loading...
Loading...
Electronic device and appliance recalls including batteries, chargers, heaters, and kitchen appliances. Fire and shock hazard alerts.
Gas Dryers Repair by Maytag Appliances NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles January 21, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-060 CPSC and Maytag Appliances Announce Recall to Inspect and Repair Gas Dryers WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Maytag Appliances, a business unit of Maytag Corporation of Newton, Iowa, is inspecting and repairing up to 73,000 older gas dryers produced under the Magic Chef, Admiral, Crosley, Norge, and Signature brands. (Maytag brand dryers are not involved). An electrical switch in the gas dryer can malfunction. This malfunction can result in the dryer overheating, posing a potential fire hazard. Maytag has received over 30 reports of dryer fires possibly caused by the electrical switch malfunction. In several instances, significant property damages have resulted. While one related injury has been reported, it was not a burn injury. Maytag Appliances is inspecting and repairing at no charge to consumers gas dryers sold under the brand names Magic Chef, Admiral, Crosley, and Norge that carry serial numbers beginning with DC, EC, FC, AD, BD, CD, DD, ED, GD, HD, JD, KD, LD, and MD and Signature brand dryers that carry serial numbers beginning with 98K, 98L, 98M, 09A, 09B, 09C, 09D, 09E, 09F, 09G, 09H, 09J, 09K, and 09L. Maytag will mail notices to consumers whose gas dryers are to be inspected. Retailers nationwide sold these gas dryers from 1989 through 1991. Consumers should check their dryer's serial number to determine if it may be part of the inspection and repair program. The serial number is located inside the dryer's door. Consumers who have one of these dryers can call Maytag Customer Service toll-free at 1 (800) 955-6566, or write to Maytag Customer Service, P.O. Box 8021, Cleveland, Tenn. 37320-8021. Consumers who own a dryer that is to be inspected are advised not to use the dryer until it has been repaired. Maytag media inquiries should be directed to Tom Schwartz at (515) 791-6342.
Model Trains Recall by MDK NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Ken Giles December 24, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-053 CPSC and MDK Inc. Recall Model Trains WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), MDK Inc. of Chapel Hill, N.C., is recalling about 20,000 model trains. If the train derails, the coupler coil spring could overheat creating a potential fire hazard. CPSC and MDK Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these model trains. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The trains involved in this recall are The Heavyweight line of O scale passenger cars, sold under the brand name K-LINE Electric Trains, which were produced from 1991 through 1995. These cars are 1:48 scale models of railroad passenger cars from the early 1900s and are designed to operate on a three-rail, O gauge track. The following types of cars are part of this train product line: coach, pullman, baggage, railway post office, diner, and observation car. All cars are individually boxed and include an end label listing the model name and number. The following cars were sold through hobby wholesalers and distributed to hobby and specialty retail stores nationwide: Railroad Name Car Numbers Baltimore & Ohio Railroad K10-0004, K10-0045 Erie-Lackawanna Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44251) K25-0001, K25-0002, K25-0098, K25-0316, K25-0469, K25-1813 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey K83-0072, K83-0073, K83-0080, K83-0093, K83-0094, K83-0095, K83-0096 Southern Railroad K86-0004, K86-0042 Southern Pacific Railroad K88-0112, K88-1918, K88-5124 Union Pacific Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44911) K91-0100, K91-0101, K91-0102, K91-0103, K91-0104, K91-0107 These additional cars were sold through the following listed outlets: Railroad Name Car Numbers Outlet Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44151) K15-0110, K15-0385, K15-0727, K15-0827, K15-0972, K15-2500 K-LINE Collectors Club (Chapel Hill, N.C.) Lackawanna Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44381) K38-0001, K38-0002, K38-0003, K38-0004, K38-0465, K38-1812 The Train Station (Mountain Lakes, N.J.) Toy Train Museum Cars K85-1884, K85-1896, K85-1870, K85-1899, K85-1877 Toy Train Museum (Strasburg, Pa.) Train Collectors Association Cars K85-1992, K85-1993 Train Collectors Association (Strasburg, Pa.) Texas & Pacific Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44891) K89-0718, K89-1018, K89-1109, K89-1402, K89-1658, K89-1818 Collectible Trains & Toys (Dallas, Texas) Pasadena Mutual Funds Car K99-1986 Pasadena Group of Mutual Fund (Greenwich, Conn.) The model trains were sold from late 1991 to the present for about $75 to 125 per car. Consumers should immediately stop operating the recalled cars, and call MDK Inc. at 800) 866-9986 for information on receiving a free repair. Consumers can write to K-LINE lectric Trains (MDK, Inc), P.O. Box 2831, Chapel Hill, N.C. 27515
AC Adapters for Armada 4100 Notebook Computers Recalled NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: December 5, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 97-037 CPSC and Compaq Computer Announce Recall of AC Adapters for Armada 4100 Notebook Computers WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Compaq Computer Corp. of Houston, Texas, is voluntarily recalling worldwide certain AC adapters for Armada 4100 notebook computers. In the U.S., the recall involves approximately 30,000 adapters. These AC adapters could have a defective connector pin presenting a shock hazard. The connector pins connect the AC adapter to the power cord which plugs into an outlet. CPSC and Compaq Computer Corp. are not aware of any injuries involving these AC adapters. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Only AC adapters with both three hollow pins in the recessed male connector and part number 217984-001 on the bar code label are included in this recall. Adapters with the same part number, but with solid pins, are not included in this recall. The label with the part number is imprinted on the bottom of the adapters. The adapters are black and measure approximately 2 by 4 ½ inches. The recalled AC adapters were supplied with Compaq's Armada 4100 notebook computers and associated convenience bases or shipped as options or spare parts to commercial dealers. The adapters were sold worldwide from September 23, 1996 through November 20, 1996 through commercial dealers to end users or directly by Compaq to end users. The Armada 4100 notebook computer itself is not included in this recall. Consumers should unplug and stop using the recalled AC adapters immediately. For information on how to receive a free replacement AC adapter, consumers can contact Compaq Computer Corp. TOLL-FREE at 1 (800) 322-9515 or http://www.compaq.com, and through Compaq forums on on-line services.
MASTER-TECH Extension Cord Recalled by Division Sales NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles December 3, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-034 CPSC and Division Sales Inc. Announce Extension Cord Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Division Sales Inc. of Itasca, Ill., is recalling approximately 21,000 extension cords. Undersized wires that cannot carry the same load as a properly constructed extension cord present fire, shock, and electrocution hazards. CPSC and Division Sales Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The white extension cords are 6 feet long. The double-wired cords have a polarized male plug on one end and three polarized female plug-in sockets at the other end. The cords are labeled "SPT-1 18AWGX2X 80*C." The receptacle is marked in part "Rated for 125 volts. For indoor use only." The extension cords, imported from China, are packaged in red and black cardboard display sleeves that are labeled in part, "MASTER-TECH 6FT EXTENSION CORD ITEM NO. 80311 MADE IN CHINA FOR JUSTEN PRODUCTS ITASCA, IL 60143." Retailers and other distributors sold the extension cords nationwide during the last five years for about $2. Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately, and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers can call Division Sales Inc. toll-free at (800) 621-8134.
K-9 Electric Fence Recalled by Waters Instruments NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Ken Giles November 26, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-031 CPSC and Waters Instruments Announce Recall of K-9 Electric Fence Controllers WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Waters Instruments Inc. of Rochester, Minn., is recalling about 13,000 Model K-9 Electric Fence Controllers, a box used to control the electricity in electric fences. The K-9 Electric Fence Controllers used outdoors in high humidity or wet environments can overheat and result in fire. Waters has received three reports of overheating occurring in K-9 Electric Fence Controllers used in an unprotected outdoor setting where they are subjected to high humidity or water. Two controller cases showed signs of melting and one controller installed under a porch caused charring of the wooden flooring. The K-9 Electric Fence Controllers with serial numbers starting with MT08096 and MT09096 have a yellow, black, and red label that reads, "American FarmWorks K-9 ELECTRIC FENCE CONTROLLER." The K-9 Electric Fence Controllers sold individually came packaged in a plastic shell with a yellow backer card. Waters also sold the units as part of a pet and garden fence kit, packaged in a yellow, black, and red box with a picture of the K-9 Electric Fence Controller printed on the box. Hardware and farm supply stores sold the K-9 Electric Fence Controllers nationwide beginning in April 1996 for about $28. Consumers should stop using the K-9 Electric Fence Controllers immediately and call Waters at (800) 962-2880 for information on returning the merchandise for replacement with a unit not adversely affected by climate.
Professional Styler Hair Dryer Recall by Best NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles November 19, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-024 CPSC and Best International Corp. Announce Hair Dryer Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Best International Corp. of Long Island City, N.Y., is recalling approximately 5,000 hand held hair dryers. Since these dryers do not have a full immersion protection plug, they present a risk of electrocution if dropped in water while the dryer is in the "on" position. The hair dryers also present a fire hazard due to inadequate wiring. Before the use of immersion protection devices, there were an average of 18 electrocutions involving hand-held hair dryers each year. Since the introduction of immersion protection devices for hand-held hair dryers, the number decreased to two electrocution deaths in 1992. The current voluntary industry standard, which has been in effect since January 1, 1991, requires hand-held hair dryers to provide full immersion protection when either in the "on" or "off" position. The recalled dryers do not have this protection. CPSC and Best International Corp. are not aware of any injuries involving these hair dryers. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The white colored plastic hair dryers come with dryer attachments in a box labelled, "International Hair Styling Set with 7 Attachments...HD-868." The hair dryer has the words "Professional Styler Asbestos Free" printed on it. Retailers in the metropolitan New York area, such as bargain, discount, and $.99 stores, sold these hair dryers from November 1995 to May 1996 for $9.99. Consumers should stop using the recalled hair dryers immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Best International Corp. at (718) 472-0860 from 1 to 5 p.m. EST. When buying a hair dryer, consumers should look for a large, rectangular-shaped plug at the end of the cord. The certification mark of a recognized testing laboratory should also be visible on the hair dryer or on the hair dryer's packaging. However, even with this improved protection, under no circumstances should consumers use a hair dryer where it could come in contact with water. Electricity and water are a potentially deadly combination.
Kid's Phone Beeper Combo Recalled by Dolgencorp NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Firm is out of business. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Nychelle White Originally issued November 13, 1996; Revised July 10, 2001 (301) 504-7063 Release # 97-021 CPSC, Dolgencorp Inc. Announce Recall of Toy Telephones WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Dolgencorp Inc. of Scottsville, Ky., is recalling 73,300 "Kid's Phone Beeper Combo" toys. The toy's telephone antenna and pieces of plastic from around the base of the antenna can break off, presenting a choking hazard to children under age 3. CPSC and Dolgencorp Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these toy telephones. The recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The toy (item number 63305/7-S) consists of a plastic cellular telephone and a beeper packaged together. The telephone, measuring 6 inches high by 2.5 inches wide, is made of yellow and white plastic with a red colored plastic flip-down bottom and blue trim. The beeper, made of white plastic with yellow, red, and blue trim, measures 3.5 inches by 2.5 inches. Push buttons on both cause flashing lights, making either telephone or beeper sounds. The toy telephone and beeper are packaged together in a cardboard box labeled in part, "KID'S PHONE BEEPER COMBO...ITEM NO. 63305/7-S." Dolgencorp distributed the toys in Dollar General stores in the central part of the country from mid-August to mid-September 1996 for $5 retail. Consumers should take the toy telephones away from young children immediately and discard or destroy them, or if possible, return them to their nearest Dollar General store for a full refund. However, the firm, Dolgencorp Inc., is out of business and cannot be contacted. CPSC learned of this problem during joint surveillance with the U.S. Customs Service.
Extension Cord Recalled by D-M Sales NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles November 4, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-018 CPSC and D-M Sales Corp. Announce Extension Cord Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), D-M Sales Corp., doing business as Supreme Import Export Inc., of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling 2,000 extension cords. The cord's wires are undersized, making the cord unsuitable for use because it cannot carry the same load as a properly constructed extension cord. The recalled cords present fire, shock, and electrocution hazards. CPSC and D-M Sales are not aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The brown, 9-foot extension cords are imprinted with the phrase, "SPT-2 VW-1 18 AWGX2C E135675 403801-001." The identification number E109853 is molded on the plug. The cords are packaged in a green cardboard sleeve labeled in part, "Supreme HOUSEHOLD EXTENSION CORD...9 FT...UPC #0 18285 00422 4 ..." Wholesalers and discount stores sold the cords nationwide from February 1993 to September 1996 for about $1. Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call D-M Sales Corp. (Supreme Import Export Inc.) at (800) 551-1113 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST. Consumers who live in the New York metropolitan area should call (718) 499-5454.
Extension Cord Recalled by Northeastern Plastics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles October 24, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-008 CPSC and Northeastern Plastics Announce Extension Cord Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Northeastern Plastics Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling approximately 31,000 extension cords. Undersized wires in the extension cords present fire, shock, and electrocution hazards. CPSC and Northeastern Plastics Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The brown or white extension cords were available in a variety of lengths, including a brown 6-foot model no. 441, a brown 9-foot model no. 442, a brown 12-foot model no. 443, a brown 20-foot model no. 445, a white 9-foot model no. 447, and a white 12-foot model no. 448. The markings "SPT-1 60C VW-1 18 awg X 2C YWC" appear on each cord printed in green ink. The cords were imported from China and packaged in a green and white sleeve labeled, in part, "JUMPOWER." Retailers in Michigan, New York, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico, such as Universal International, $1 Depot, and Galaxy, sold these extension cords from April to July 1996 for about $5. Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Northeastern Plastics Inc. at (800) 989-2674 Ext. 76.
LP Polaris Comfort Systems Recall/Repair by American Water Heater NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles September 25, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 96-191 CPSC, American Water Heater Group Announce Free Home Repair of LP Polaris Comfort Systems WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Mor-Flo Industries Inc., doing business as the American Water Heater Group of Johnson City, Tenn., is announcing a voluntary recall program to repair approximately 6,500 LP Polaris Comfort Systems combination water heaters and home heating systems. Under certain circumstances, fuel gas may ignite explosively, causing property damage or injury. The American Water Heater Group is aware of 104 incidents of heater damage and three incidents in which property damage extended beyond the heater. No injuries have been reported. This retrofit involves Polaris Comfort Systems water heaters with the following model numbers: PR34LPGV, PR50LPGV, PR34LPGFV, PR50LPGFV, PC100-34LPGV, PC100-50LPGV, PBG102-34S100-2P, PBG102-50T100-2P, PBCG32-34S100-2P, PBCG32-50S100-2P, PBCG52-34S100-2P, PBCG52-50S100-2P, DVPB35LPGV, PVG-34S100-2P, The model numbers are located on an identification/data plate on the front center of the exterior of the heater, about three feet above the floor. Heating and cooling contractors sold the heaters nationwide from 1985 to July 1996 for about $2,200. Consumers should immediately call the American Water Heater Group at (800) 456-9805 or write to the company's Product Services and Support Group at P.O. Box 1597, Johnson City, Tenn. 37605. The company will arrange installation of a free safety upgrade kit. For more information, consumers should call American Water Heater Group.
Ceramic Space Heater Recalled by Caframo Limited NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles August 14, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 96-184 CPSC and Caframo Limited Announce Recall of Ceramic Space Heater WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC),Caframo Limited of Wiarton, Ontario, Canada, is recalling 2,460 "Ceramic Furnace" electric space heaters (model 9301T). The heaters' fan motors may overheat, presenting an electric shock and fire hazard. CPSC and Caframo are not aware of any injuries involving these space heaters. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The heaters measure 6.75 inches high, 5.5 inches wide, and five inches deep. The front of the heater is labelled in part, "Caframo Ceramic Furnace" in red lettering. The model number appears on a white label on the bottom of the heater. The space heaters were sold nationwide primarily through marine and RV supply distributors from August 1993 through December 1995 for about $70. Consumers should stop using the heaters immediately and contact Caframo at (800)399-0708. Caframo will arrange free pick up of the recalled heater from the consumer's home, and will send the consumer a free replacement heater of greater value.
One-Hour Battery Chargers Recalled by Dewalt NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles August 1, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 96-176 CPSC and Dewalt Announce Recall of One-Hour Battery Chargers WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Dewalt Industrial Tool Co. of Hampstead, Md., is announcing a recall of approximately 150,000 DW9104 and DW9106 one-hour battery chargers. The charger's plastic housing could separate during a severe impact, exposing internal electrical components that could present an electric shock hazard. Dewalt has not received any reports of the charger breaking, or injuries involving the charger. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Only some DW9104 and DW9106 one-hour battery chargers are subject to this recall. The recalled chargers can be identified by the fact that both the top and bottom halves of the charger are black, the bottom of the charger is stamped with a date code between 9534 and 9615, and there is a circular depression 1-3/8" in diameter located under the center of the label on the top of the charger housing. DW9104 and DW9106 chargers measure approximately five inches deep, three inches high, and four inches wide, and have a label on top with yellow lettering that reads in part, "DEWALT." Hardware stores and home centers sold the chargers nationwide between August 1995 and April 1996 for between $39 and $59. During the same period, hardware stores and home centers also sold the chargers in kits with some rechargeable cordless tools. No other Dewalt Tool chargers are involved in this recall. Owners of the identified chargers should return them to a Black & Decker/Dewalt Service Center for a free replacement one-hour battery charger. To locate the nearest service center, or for more information, owners should call (800) 540-2626. Media inquiries should be directed to Jean Miskimmon at (410) 625-2621.
Computer Scanners Correction Program NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations June 7, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-143 CPSC and Visioneer, Inc. Announce Software and Hardware Correction Program for Computer Scanners WASHINGTON, D.C.-In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Visioneer, Inc. is announcing a voluntary correction program for approximately 150,000 computer scanners sold under the names PaperPort Vx, Hewlett-Packard ScanJet 4s, and Compaq Scanner Keyboard. If the scanner's power supply is momentarily decreased, the scanner's motor can lock and may overheat. Visioneer, Hewlett-Packard and Compaq have received a total of 38 reports of motor lock-up involving the scanners. CPSC and Visioneer have not received any reports of injuries from customers experiencing an overheat condition. Consumers use scanners to store documents in personal computers to be accessed on-screen. Once the document is on-screen, it can be faxed, filed, edited, or e-mailed. Visioneer's portable, beige plastic scanners measure approximately 3.75 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 2.50 inches deep. The Hewlett-Packard ScanJet 4s measures approximately 4 inches high, 12 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep. The Compaq Scanner Keyboard measures approximately 2.29 inches high, 20.75 inches wide, and 8.89 inches deep. Consumers scan materials such as pictures or charts by feeding the material into a slot on the front of the scanner. The scanned image appears on the computer screen as the material is fed through the scanner. When the image has been completely scanned, the material exits out of the top of the scanner. The scanners were sold nationwide between September 1995 and May 1996 mainly through catalogs, mail order and third party distributors such as computer superstores and computer retailers for suggested retail prices ranging from $299 to $349. Scanners manufactured after March 15, 1996 are not affected by the error condition. Consumers can download a software solution from Visioneer's Worldwide Web site that will significantly reduce the chance of lock-up. Consumers can also obtain and install a free retrofit kit from Visioneer, Hewlett-Packard or Compaq which includes a new circuit to prevent motor lock-up. Consumers can call Visioneer at (800) 834-3460 to order the free retrofit kit or contact Visioneer through their Web site at http://www.visioneer.com. to obtain the downloadable software. Consumers can also call Hewlett-Packard at (800) 367-7255 or fax to (510) 275-1190 to order free retrofit kits. Consumers can also call Compaq at (800) 652-6672 to order free retrofit kits. Visioneer voluntarily reported the lock-up problem to the CPSC.
Kingston DIMM Module for IBM ThinkPads Recalled by Kingston Tech NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations May 30, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-137 CPSC, Kingston Technology Announce Recall of Kingston DIMM Module for IBM ThinkPads WASHINGTON, D.C. In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kingston Technology Corporation of Fountain Valley, Calif., is recalling about 27,000 memory modules designed and sold by Kingston for use exclusively with IBM ThinkPad 760 L, LD, C & CD Notebook Computers. The modules may cause a short circuit and result in overheating, smoke, and possibly fire. Kingston has received one report of a short circuit occurring in an IBM ThinkPad 760 computer, which resulted in overheating. Kingston and CPSC are not aware of any injuries or property damage involving the memory module. The Kingston KTM-TP760/16 DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) is a 16 megabyte memory upgrade. The module, measuring 1 inch by 3.5 inches, fits into a compartment on the bottom of the computer and is sold separately. Distributors, major reseller chains, and independent dealers sold the DIMM modules worldwide from November 1995 through May 1996 at list prices ranging from $500 to $950. No other Kingston products and no IBM products are involved in this recall. Eight megabytes of memory come standard in each IBM ThinkPad 760 L, LD, C and CD computer. Computers with less than 24 megabytes of memory do not, therefore, contain a 16 megabyte memory module and are not affected by this recall. Consumers who own an IBM ThinkPad 760 L, LD, C or CD computer containing 24 or more megabytes of memory should call Kingston at (888) 435-4937. The company will help consumers determine whether their computer contains Kingston memory and whether the memory is subject to this recall, and the company will arrange for the replacement of the module. Additional information about this recall is available on Kingston's home page on the Internet: http://www.kingston.com.
Portable Halogen Work Light Recalled by Quality Craft NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations May 30, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-135 CPSC and Quality Craft Announce Portable Halogen Work Light Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Quality Craft of Lilburn, Ga., is voluntarily recalling about 75,000 portable halogen outdoor work lights. Water could leak into the lights, presenting a serious shock hazard which could cause serious injury or a possible fatality. In addition, the internal wiring temperature may exceed limits that are safe, posing a fire hazard. The yellow and black portable halogen work lights, measuring 12 inches high from the base to the top of the handle, have a black cord. A sticker on one side of the light casing is labeled, "UL Underwriters Laboratories E 127638." A warning label on the other side of the casing reads in part, "WARNING - LAMP IS HOT!!!" The lights are packaged in a white cardboard box with a photo of the lamp, labeled in part "500 WATT HALOGEN WORK LIGHT ... Powerful Outdoor Lighting ... Quality Craft ... QH-505 ..." This recall affects only Quality Craft Halogen Work Lights with model number QH-505 and UL number E 127638. No other Quality Craft products are involved in this recall. Menards, Inc. home center and building supply stores throughout the upper midwest sold the lights from November 1994 through July 1995 for $9.95. Consumers should stop using these portable halogen work lights immediately and return them to the nearest Menards for a full refund or replacement light. For more information, consumers should call Quality Craft at (800) 200-2199. Quality Craft is not aware of any injuries associated with these work lights. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.
Hair Dryer Recalled by Sprint International NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations May 7, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-119 CPSC and Sprint International Announce Hair Dryer Recall WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sprint International of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling approximately 1,160 hair dryers. Since these dryers do not have a full immersion protection plug, they present a risk of electrocution if dropped in water while the dryer is in the "on" position. The hair dryers also present a fire hazard due to inadequate wiring. Before the use of immersion protection devices, there were an average of 18 electrocutions involving hand-held hair dryers each year. Since the introduction of immersion protection devices for hand-held hair dryers the number decreased to two electrocution deaths in 1992. The current voluntary industry standard, which has been in effect since January 1, 1991, requires hand-held hair dryers to provide full immersion protection when either in the "on" or "off" position. The recalled dryers do not have this protection. CPSC and Sprint International are not aware of any injuries involving these hair dryers. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The hair dryers bear the Sprint name and are labeled in part, "HD-150 1250W... AC-110V 60HZ." The dryers were packaged in boxes labeled in part, "SPRINT...COMPACT PRO HD-150...MADE IN CHINA." Retail stores in the New York Metropolitan area sold the dryers from January 1994 to April 1996 for about $10. Consumers who own these hair dryers should stop using them immediately and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. Consumers in the New York area should call (718) 499-5511 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. eastern time for additional information. Consumers outside the New York Metropolitan area should call (800) 955-3115 for more information. When buying a hair dryer, consumers should look for a large, rectangular-shaped plug at the end of the cord. The certification mark of a recognized testing laboratory should also be visible on the hair dryer or on the hair dryer's packaging. However, even with this improved protection, under no circumstances should consumers use a hair dryer where it could come in contact with water. Electricity and water are a potentially deadly combination.
Extension Cord Recalled by Sprint International NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations May 2, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-117 CPSC and Sprint International, Inc. Announce Extension Cord Recall WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sprint International, Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling 20,196 extension cords. The cord's wires are undersized, making them unsuitable for use as extension cords because they cannot carry the same load as properly constructed extension cords. The recalled cords present a fire, shock and electrocution hazard. In addition, the cords are made with a plastic that, once ignited, continues to burn and spread flames. CPSC and Sprint International, Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The brown or white extension cords measure 6 feet (item AC-67-6), 12 feet (item AC-67-12), 15 feet (item AC-67-15), or 20 feet (item AC-67-20). The cords are labelled in part, "SPT-2 ... 18AWGX2C." The cords were packaged in cardboard sleeves labeled in part, "SPRINT... HOUSEHOLD EXTENSION CORD." Retail stores in New York and New Jersey sold the cords from January 1994 through December 1995 for between $1 and $3. Consumers who own the recalled extension cords should stop using them immediately and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Daniel Sivarak at (718) 499-5511 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Eastern time. Consumers who live outside the New York metropolitan area should call (800) 955-3115.
Photographer's Power Pack Recalled by Comet World NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Media Relations April 25, 1996 (301) 504-7908 Release # 96-111 CPSC, Comet World, Inc. Announce Photographer's Power Pack Recall WASHINGTON, D.C.-In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Comet World, Inc. of Hillside, N.J., is recalling about 1,600 "Jackrabbitpack" high capacity DC-DC voltage converters. The power packs are used by professional photographers to rapidly charge electronic camera flash lamps. If the cord that connects the power pack to the flash system is incorrectly inserted into the power pack, consumers could receive an electric shock. Comet World, Inc. has received four reports of photographers who received electrical shocks when using the "Jackrabbitpack" with the connecting cord incorrectly inserted. The company and CPSC are not aware of any serious injuries associated with this product. The black power pack measures two inches high, five inches wide, and 3.5 inches deep. A drawing of a white rabbit and an orange circle appear on the front of the pack, along with labelling that reads, "Dyna-lite Flash Equipment ... Jackrabbitpack (TM) ... Manufactured by DYNA-LITE, U.S.A. ..." An on/off switch is located in the bottom left corner, next to two small indicator lights. Consumers insert the connecting cord into receptacles located in the lower right front corner of the power pack. Consumers can carry the power pack by attaching a strap to two small metal D-shaped rings on the sides of the power pack. Photography supply stores sold the "Jackrabbitpack" nationwide from January 1990 through March 19, 1996. A "Jackrabbitpack" packaged with a five hour charger sold for $259. A "Jackrabbitpack" packaged with a Dyna-lite self contained 400 watt second flash unit (UNI400JR) as part of the UNIJR-PS1 kit sold for $899. A "Jackrabbitpack" sold with an additional "Jackrabbitpack" and two UNI400JRs as well as light stands and umbrellas as part of the UNIJR-LW2 package system sold for $2,199. Consumers should check the "Jackrabbitpack's" serial number located on a black and silver label on the back of the power pack and call Comet World, Inc. at (800) 722-6638, ext. 215. The company will help consumers determine whether their "Jackrabbitpack" is subject to this recall. Consumers should stop using the recalled "Jackrabbitpack" immediately and return the "Jackrabbitpack," all AC chargers, and connecting cables used with the unit to the store where purchased for repair. Consumers can also mail the "Jackrabbitpack," charger and cables to Comet World, Inc., 311-319 Long Avenue, Hillside, N.J. 07205. The company will repair the "Jackrabbitpacks" and connecting cables free of charge and return them to the consumer within one week after the repair is completed.
Overhead Projector Recalled by 3M NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles April 24, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 96-097 CPSC and 3M Announce Overhead Projector Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the 3M Visual Systems Division of Austin, Texas, is announcing the voluntary recall of about 15,000 Series 4400 overhead projectors. Heat generated from the lamp of a projector with a dislocated reflector can potentially damage the projector's power cord, creating an electric shock hazard. Heat produced by the internal projection lamp can warp the projector's reflector severely enough to cause the reflector to slip from its securing bracket and fall into the projector body. As a result, the bottom of the projector could become very hot to the touch. If the power cord is in contact with the bottom of the projector, damage to the power cord insulation could expose electric wires, creating an electric shock hazard. 3M is not aware of any injuries or property damage in connection with the faulty projectors. The company has received one report of a damaged electric cord. Initially, about 30,000 projectors were manufactured. Approximately half of the machine owners have been sent retrofit reflector kits to repair the projectors. CPSC and 3M are asking that the remaining owners respond to the product recall. This product recall involves all 3M 4400 Series projectors: model numbers 4405, 4406, 4407, 4410, and 4415, with serial numbers ranging from 200,001 to 247,742. The projectors are gray, have a projection stage that is 11.5 inches square, have the company name on the front cover, and have the company name and model number on the dated nameplate located on the bottom of the machine. 3M sold the overhead projectors to schools and office supply stores nationwide from April 1994 to November 1995 for about $299 to $389 each. Consumers who own the recalled overhead projectors not retrofitted with the reflector kit should unplug them immediately, stop using the machines, and call 3M at (800) 328-1371. 3M will send consumers a retrofit kit for installation, or instruct them on where to return projectors for installation of the retrofit kit free of charge. Consumers will also receive a free projection lamp when the projector is repaired. All projectors manufactured by 3M after November 10, 1995, with manufacturing Code C4 and Serial Number 247,742 or higher include the new reflector retaining clip. In addition, all projectors repaired by 3M will have a round red tag on the bottom of the projector with an "R" printed on it. NOTE: Please refer media inquires for 3M to Mary C. Auvin at (612) 736-2597 or Matthew P. Fagan at (512) 984-3277.
April 16, 1996 Release # 96-104 WASHINGTON, D.C. - CPSC, Consolidated Stores Corp. of Columbus, Ohio, is recalling about 125,000 six-outlet power strips. The electrical wiring in the power strip cord could overheat and possibly cause a fire. In addition, the poor quality and construction of the power strip poses an electrocution hazard for consumers.While no injuries have been associated with the use of the power strips, Consolidated Stores is aware of two reports of tools that were damaged after being plugged into a power strip. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.The beige metal power strips, item 81488, measure 12 inches long, 2.25 inches wide and 1.5 inches deep. The power strips have six black receptacles, a red on/off indicator switch, and a black cord. They were packaged in a blue box labeled in part, "FULL SURGE 6 OUTLET POWER STRIP ... 6 RECEPTACLES. CIRCUIT BREAKER. 5 FT CORD ... 15 AMPS MAX." The back of the box is labeled in part: "SURGE PROTECTED 6-OUTLET CENTER ... SAFETY GUARD ... MADE IN CHINA UNION FIELD INDUSTRIES LTD CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA 91789 ... UPC code 0 83726 81488 5." There are no identifying markings or labels on the power strips.Odd Lots, Big Lots, and All For One retail stores in the East, South, and Midwest sold the power strips from May 1995 to December 1995 for about $5 each. Consumers should stop using the power strips immediately and return them to an Odd Lots, Big Lots, or All For One store for a full refund or exchange. For more information, consumers should call Michael Schlonsky at Consolidated Stores Corp. at (800) 877-1253, extension 6807