Loading...
Loading...
Electronic device and appliance recalls including batteries, chargers, heaters, and kitchen appliances. Fire and shock hazard alerts.
TX-900A Heater Recalled by Bernzomatic NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued September 15, 1987, Revised April 28, 2004 Release # 87-053 Note: Responding Firm Name, Location, Phone Number Change. Bernzomatic TX-900A Heater Recall -- $50 Refund Offered WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, BernzOmatic, once located in Medina, New York (now a brand under Irwin Industrial, located in Wilmington, OH), announced the recall of its model TX-900A portable propane gas radiant heaters last manufactured and sold by the company in 1966. The Commission is aware of 16 deaths and one serious injury that. have occurred since 1972, from asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning that may have been associated with the use of there heaters in poorly ventilated areas. The latest such incident occurred in December 1986. Directions which may be on the TX-900A heater state, among other things: "FOR COMPLETELY SAFE OPERATION, this heater SHOULD BE USED ONLY IN WELL VENTILATED AREAS, since all combustion heaters consume oxygen and exhaust fumes can be harmful. DO NOT USE WHEN SLEEPING." Consumers should immediately stop using these heaters and contact Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name). BernzOmatic is offering to refund owners $50 for each model TX-900A heater returned C.O.D. Approximately 33,000 TX-9OCA heaters were produced and sold by the manufacturer between 1962 and 1966. The heater (pictured) is housed in a blue or green metal cabinet approximately 9 inches wide x 14 inches high x 7 inches deep, with room inside for two 34.1 ounce propane gas cylinders. The name BernzOmatic appears on the front of the heater. The name BernzOmatic, the model number TX-SW and the description, Portable Gas Radiant Fester appear on instructions which may be on the inner side of the rear door. Owners of a model TX-90OA heater should call Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name) toll-free at 800-654-9011 for information on how to return the heater and obtain a refund. To determine if your product is covered by this announcement, consumers may call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 8OO-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054 . While BernzOmatic is voluntarily conducting this recall, it is BernzOmatic's position that its action does not constitute an admission that there has been any violation of any state, federal or common law, nor does BernzOmatic admit liability.
Bean Pot Table Lamps Recalled by W. Bell & Morman Manuf. NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 10, 1987 Release # 87-049 325 Table Lamps Recalled Due To Shock Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Morman Manufacturing Company, Inc., Philadelphia, Pa., and the retailer, W. Bell & Company, Rockville, Maryland, are recalling 325 glass bean pot table lamps that the Commission staff believes present a severe electric shock hazard. The lamps were sold by Bell under catalog No. 41301K from March 1984 through December 1986. The lamps bear no identification other than an Underwriters Laboratories, Ire. (UL) listing label with the number "E-31476." In June 1986, a CPSC employee was shocked while turning off one of these lamps, while standing on a possibly damp carpet. The Commission's technical staff examined eighteen of these lamps installed in CPSC offices. Four of these lamps, including the one involved in the shock incident, were found improperly wired, which resulted in a short circuit. The Commission staff believes that anyone who touches the metal lampholder or other metal parts of a defective lamp could receive a severe or fatal electric shock. These glass heap pot lamps were sold by 22 W. Bell & Company stores in the Midwestern and Eastern United States for $39.75. Although the lamp itself is not identified with the catalog no. 41301k nor with any company name, each lamp has an Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., listing label on the lampholder, showing the number "E-31476." The table lamp is described as a clear glass jar on a brass metal base, with a shade made of a beige rice cloth and vinyl knife pleats. The lamp is 30 inches tall, weighs 11 pounds, and has a three way light switch. Consumers who have purchased any of these lamps should return the item to the W. Bell & Company store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers who are not certain if their lamp is subject to recall may contact W. Bell & Company at 301-468-5670 for clarification. As an alternative, consumers may visit the nearest W. Bell & Company store where recall signs, showing a picture of the lamp, are displayed. Information about their recall may also be obtain from the CPSC toll-free hotline number at NO-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
CB Base Station Antenna Recalled by Antron Antenna Research & Electronics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 1987 Release # 87-017 Antron Antenna Research & Electronics Recalls Omnidirectional CB Base Station Antenna WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Antron Antenna Research t Electronics, Holland, Ohio is voluntarily recalling its Antron Model,"99" omnidirectional CB base station antennas. If contact is made by the antennas with an electrical power line while being installed or taken down, the antennas have the potential for severe or fatal shock. The CPSC stated that in tests conducted on the Model "99", it failed to comply with the agency's mandatory safety standard. The standard is intended to reduce the electrocution hazard if the antenna should accidentally contact a power line while being removed or installed. The CPSC is not aware of any injuries or deaths involving the Antron "99" omnidirectional CB base station antennas. However, during the 5 year period prior to the CPSC's safety standard, and estimated 450 CB antenna related electrocutions occurred as a result of the antennas being put up or taken down. Electrocution deaths continue to occur each year from CB antennas which fail to comply with the standard. Antron Antenna Research f Electronics distributed approximately 100 of the affected antennas nationwide. The Model, and Company name appear on the shipping carton, instruction sheet and antenna. Retailers who still have these antennas in stock should return them to Antron Antenna Research & Electronics immediately for refund. Consumers owning any of these antennas which have not been installed should return them to the dealer for a full refund. Consumers who have already installed antennas should leave them alone. These persons can obtain a warning sticker label/hang tag to be placed in a conspicuous location on the product to warn future users about the potential hazard. The sticker label/hang tag can be obtained by calling Antron Antenna Research & Electronics at 419-865-5877 or writing the firm at 7134 Railroad St., Holland, Ohio 43528. As a normal practice, individuals planning to install or take down a CB antenna should first contact their local power company for advice if overhead-wires pass through the neighborhood. Additional information concerning this recall is also available to consumers by calling the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Patton & Sears Plastic-Body Space Heaters Correction by Patton NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 19, 1987 Release # 87-010 Patton Announces Voluntary Corrective Action Program for Space Heaters WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Patton Electric Company, New Haven, Indiana is conducting a voluntary corrective action program for certain Patton model HF-6 and HF-12W and Sears, Roebuck and Co. model 201.362010 portable plastic-body electric space heaters. Patton is undertaking this action to correct manufacturing deficiencies in the heaters which may result in the heaters catching fire. The units subject to this corrective action program were manufactured in 1984 and bear the date codes 8407 to 8412. The model number and date code can be found on the label located on the base of the unit. The CPSC is aware of at least three instances where units exhibited flaming or melting resulting from the defect in these heaters. No personal injuries have been reported. The heaters sold for between $20 and $40. The Patton units have a black grill and either a white or a wood grain plastic body. The Sears units have a black grill and a brown plastic body. These heaters were distributed since 1984. If you have one of these heaters, you should immediately discontinue use of the heater and contact Patton Electric Company at 219 749 2775, for instructions concerning correction of your heator Consumers should not attempt repairs or modifications themselves.
Rechargeable Electric Shaver Stands Recalled by Norelco NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE December 22, 1986 Release # 86-81 Norelco Recalls Rechargeable Electric Shaver Stands WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, "Norelco" Consumer Products Division announced a voluntary recall/replacement program for stands included with model HP 1337 and HP 1323 rechargeable electric shavers produced in 1986, due to a possible shock or minor burn hazard associated with the rechargeable a shaver stand. Shaver stands produced before 1986 are not known to contain this hazard, which occurs on initial use only. Norelco has reports of 30 incidents in which the cord shorted out upon being initially plugged into the wall while connected to the rechargeable stand. There are approximately 4 reports of minor personal injury. This product was introduced in 1984. Approximately 500,000 have been distributed. These shavers retail for approximately $79.95 and have been sold nationwide. The stand is black and has the word "ROTATRACT" printed on it in white lettering. Approximately 60,000 of the stands are estimated to have reached consumers in 1986. If you have a new Norelco shaver with a stand, do not plug it in. Return the stand only, not the shaver or the cord, to Norelco Service, Inc., Dept. 1337, 2100 East Valencia, Fullerton, CA 92631. Norelco will replace the stand and refund your postage. You may continue to use the shaver with the cord while your stand accessory is being serviced. If you have any questions, please call Norelco directly at 800-227-1032.
LP Gas-Fired Cabinet Heaters Recalled by Valor NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1986 Release # 86-058 CPSC Warns of LP Gas-Fired Cabinet Heaters Dangers Washington, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Valor International Limited, an English manufacturer, is issuing a safety notice concerning approximately 3,000 LP gas-fired cabinet heaters which may create a potential fire and explosion hazard due to gas leakage. The heaters are "Cosy-Glo" Model 177 and "Valorette" Model 378. They were imported and sold by Valor America Heating, Inc., Ottsville, Pennsylvania, an independent U.S. firm that has gone out of business. The cabinet heaters were sold primarily in Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsyl vania and Wisconsin from 1980 to 1982 for approximately $250. The Commission is aware of 5 fire/explosion incidents involving the Cosy-Glo or Valorette heaters. In all 5 incidents property damage and/or injuries were reported. The heaters were designed to be used with a 20 pound LP gas cylinder stored inside the cabinet, although no LP gas cylinder was sold with the heater and all available LP gas cylinders are intended for outdoor use. Use of the heaters connected to an LP gas cylinder located indoors may create a potential fire and explosion hazard due to gas leakage at the connector valve or pressure regulator. In addition, an LP gas cylinder intended for use outdoors may vent gas into the environment due to the expansion of gas if it is over-filled. Consumers should discontinue use of the heater and contact 11 their local gas company for assistance in connecting the heater to an outside gas source. Anyone wishing additional information may call the CPSC's toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Omnidirectional Cb Antennas Recalled by Jo Gunn Enterprises NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE July 9, 1986 Release # 86-42 Jo Gunn Enterprises Recalls Omnidirectional Cb Antennas Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Jo Gunn Enterprises, Ethelsville, Alabama is voluntarily recalling five models of its omnidirectional CB base station antennas. These are Model 100, Model 200, Son of A Gunn, Hillbilly and Pistol. If contact is made by the antennas with an electrical power line while being installed or taken down, the antennas have the potential for severe or fatal shock. The CPSC is not aware of any injuries or deaths involving the Jo Gunn Omnidirectional CB Antennas. About 500 antenna-related electrocutions have been estimated to have occurred since 1976 as a result of CB antennas are being put up or taken down. The CPSC investigation revealed that the five models of omnidirectional CB antennas fail to comply with the agency's mandatory safety standard and labeling requirements. The standard is intended to reduce the electrocution hazard if the antenna should accidentally contact a power line while being removed or installed. The standard requires labeling on the product and its packaging warning about the electrocution hazard and further requires instructions for safe installation. Jo Gunn Enterprises distributed approximately 92 of the affected antennas nationwide. Model and company name appear on the shipping carton and instruction sheet. No labeling appears on the antenna. Retailers who still have these antennas in stock should return them to Jo Gunn Enterprises immediately for refund. Consumers owning any of these antennas which have not been installed should return them to the dealer for a full refund. Consumers who have already installed the antennas should leave them alone. These persons can obtain a warning sticker label/hang tag to be placed in a conspicuous location on the product to warn future users about the potential hazard. The sticker label/hang tag can be obtained by calling Jo Gunn Enterprises at 205-658-2595 or writing the firm at Route 1, Box 383, Ethelsville, AL 35461. As a normal practice, individuals planning to install or take down a CB antenna should first contact their local power company for advice if overhead wires pass through the neighborhood.
Omnidirectional CB Antenna Recalled By Granada Electronics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 1986 Release # 86-07 Granada Electronics Inc. Recalls Omnidirectional CB Antenna Washington, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Granada Electronics Inc., Brooklyn, NY is voluntarily recalling its Model M400 Omnidirectional CB base station antennas. If contact is made by the antennas with an electrical power line while being installed or taken down, the antennas have the potential for severe or fatal shock. The CPSC stated that in tests conducted on the Model M400, it failed to comply with the agency's mandatory safety standard and labeling requirements. The standard is intended to reduce the electrocution hazard if the antenna should accidentally contact a power line while being removed or installed. The standard requires labeling on the product and its packaging warning about the electrocution hazard and further requires instructions for safe installation. Granada Electronics Inc. distributed approximately 2000 of the affected antennas nationwide. The Model M400 CB Base Station Antenna consists of 14 sections of aluminum tubing which form two three-legged tripods on its mast. The CPSC is not aware of any injuries or deaths involving the Model M400 antennas. About 500 antenna-related electrocutions have been estimated to have occurred since 1976 as a result of CB antennas coming into contact with electrical power lines while the antennas are being put up or taken down. Therefore, consumers should not take down any of the recalled antennas, which are already installed. The affected antennas are being removed from dealers and replaced. Retailers who still have the model M400 in stock should return them to Granada Electronics Inc., immediately for replacement. Consumers owning any of the M400 models that have not been installed should return the antenna to the dealer for a full refund. Consumers who have already installed the M400 models should leave them alone. These persons can obtain a warning hang tag to be placed in a conspicuous location on the product to warn future users about the potential hazard. The hang tag can be obtained by calling Granada Electronics Inc., at 718-387-1156 or writing the firm at 485 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211. As a normal practice, individuals planning to install or take down a CB antenna should first contact their local power company for advice if overhead wires pass through the neighborhood.
Release # 85-044 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) the Franzus Company Inc., now in Connecticut, today announced the voluntary recall of 188,000 "Wrinkles Away" Electric Clothes Steamers, Models WA-111 and WA-222. The company has information that some of these units, produced between July 1984 and December 1984, may be defective and present a burn hazard resulting from the spillage of boiling or hot water from the base. The company has received approximately fifty reports or complaints of product failure and injury. The reports stated that, without warning, the base and heater assembly separated from the product, spilling boiling of hot water onto the user. Many of the reports stated that the users sustained serious burn injuries from the hot water. The Wrinkles Away Clothes Steamer is a hand held electric appliance used at home or during travel to eliminate wrinkles in clothes. The product has a beige and brown colored plastic nozzle, a brown colored plastic cylinder body with handle, and a base heater assembly with electric cord. The recalled clothes steamer can be identified on the plastic base cap with the embossed model number "Cat. No. WA-111" or "Cat. No. WA-222", along with the company name and address. The product is sold by retail stores nationwide and by catalogue distributors. The WA-111 and WA-222 carry a suggested retail price of $22.95 and $26.95, respectively. The Franzus Company is offering to replace the recalled unit, free of charge, with a new unit having a back-up fastening device. The WA-111 and WA-222 models subject to recall include those units sold to consumers after July 1984, but do not include those units identified as Special Edition Models WA-111SE and WA-222SE. Owners who have recalled clothes steamer should stop using it immediately. To obtain a free replacement, owners should call Franzus at its toll-free number: (800) 706-7060. The company will provide a new unit to the consumer, along with reimbursement for mailing expenses from returning the recalled unit. Consumers who have questions or seek additional information should Information concerning this matter is also available to consumers on CPSC's toll-free hotline at 800-638-2772. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is 800-638-6270
Toy ATV's Recalled by Pines NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Firm is out of business. Do not use these products. Please discard or destroy these products. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued July 3, 1985, Revised July 10, 2001 Release # 85-035 Battery Operated Toy ATV's Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Pines of America Inc., a toy manufacturer located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is out of business. Owners of the ATV Trailblazer - Model No. PP9083 are to discontinue use immediately. The ATV Trailblazer is a battery operated ride-on toy motorcycle for children ages 4-7. It sold for approximately $99.00. Pines had learned that under certain circumstances a short circuit can occur in the battery wiring harness. Pines of America was aware of 30 reports of incidents involving a short circuit, which have resulted in overheating at the battery harness location. While no injuries have been reported as a result of the overheating, consumers owning this toy are requested to discontinue use immediately. The problem applies only to the ATV Trailblazers -Model PP9083 produced between July 21, 1983 and April 16, 1984 and not to any other Pines' Riding Toys. The affected model can be identified by a decal on the rear of the toy which designates the name Trailblazer. Further information on this recall can be obtained by calling the Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054. Pines of America Battery Operated ATV Trailblazer, Model No. PP9083
Sears Craftsman 22-Inch Hedge Trimmers Recalled by Singer NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 1985 Release # 85-026 Sears Craftsman 22-Inch Hedge Trimmers Recalled WASHINTON, D.C. -- In Cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, The Singer Company, Stamford, Connecticut today announced the voluntary recall of a 22-inch hedge trimmer sold by Sears, Roebuck and Company. The product being recalled is a Sears Craftsman 22-inch Hedge Trimmer, Model Number 315.796640 with date codes B4322, B4329 or B4336 without a white "100" label affixed below the data plate. These identifying numbers are on the plate which is located near the handle of the trimmer. Approximately 400 of these hedge trimmers were sold through Sears stores during December 1984 and January 1985 for $65.00 each. Although there have been no reports of accidents or injuries, a manufacturing defect in the plug assembly of some trimmers could, under certain circumstances cause a shock hazard if the operator is grounded. Consumers should immediately stop using the hedge trimmers listed above and return them to the Customer Service Counter of their nearest Sears store for replacement. Consumers seeking additional information or clarification are encouraged to call The Singer Company toll-free at 800-845-4781 (in South Carolina dial 800-922-7780) or may call the CPSC toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Kerosene Heaters Retrofited by Perfection NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Firm name change. Firm is no longer offering retrofit. Do not use these products. Please discard or destroy these products. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued April 11, 1985; Revised Decerber 3, 2001 Release # 85-018 Perfection Kerosene Heaters WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Perfection Schwank (formerly Perfection Product Company) of Waynesboro, Georgia, had announced a retrofit program for Perfection Model 770 and Model 770-l portable kerosene heaters. These kerosene heaters were originally manufactured for outdoor use only and do not contain a flame extinguishing device to extinguish the flames if the units are tipped over. Some consumers may be I using the units indoors where the risk of fire is much greater. The units are black or beige in color, cylindrical in shape and originally sold for approximately $40.00 to $50.00 dollars. Consumers should check the identification label: on their heater for the model number. Consumers owning one of the heaters are urged to stop using it indoors. Perfection Schwank (706-554-2101) is no longer offering the retrofit program. Consumers should not use these products. They should be discarded or destroyed. The firm had agreed to label future production of these heaters and to use an industrial color on the units. Consumers may obtain more information by calling the CPSC toll-free Hotline on 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Electric Space Heaters Recalled by Patton NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE March 12, 1985 Release # 85-011 Reminder Of Voluntary Recall Of Electric Space Heaters Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Patton Electric Company, New Haven, Indiana, today issued a reminder to the public of its voluntary recall, originally announced in April 1984, of a particular discontinued model of a "Patton" and "Sears" brand portable electric space heater because of a possible fire hazard. The firm is issuing this reminder because approximately 50,000 of the discontinued heaters may still be in consumer use. The CPSC has investigated over sixty incidents of fire in houses where these heaters were being used. Patton halted distribution of the heaters after reports of a possible fire hazard. In March 1984, Patton notified all retail outlets which sold the heaters to remove them from sale. The recalled electric heaters are small portable plastic models and have a "slide-type" control switch on the top. Consumers may identify the recalled units by looking at the bottom label of their heater for either Patton Model HF-10 or Sears Model 201-7208 and the words " Made in Hong-Kong." Only the above two models were involved in the recall. Consumers who may still have these heaters in their possession are urged to stop using them and to unplug them from electrical outlets. Owners should call Patton at l-800-528-6600 ext. 1722 (Arizona: l-800-352-0458 ext. 1722; Alaska l-800-528-0470 ext. 1722) to verify that their heater is one of the recalled models and to obtain instructions for returning the heater to Patton for replacement at no cost. The heaters were sold nationwide between August 1983 and March 1984 in large chain stores including Sears, as well as in small retail outlets. The units were sold for under $30.00. The company believes the potential fire hazard is related to the sliding type switch assembly and not the heater itself. This switch, which utilizes a diode, was installed only in the recalled heater models. These are also the only heaters manufactured in Hong Kong for Patton. All other Patton models are manufactured by Patton in the U.S. and have proven rotary dial temperature controls. Under the recall program, Patton Electric will replace all suspect model heaters with a new domestically manufactured unit. The replacement as well as all transportation charges will be at no cost to the consumer.
Scroller Saws Recalled by Singer NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 18, 1985 Release # 85-004 Recall Of Scroller Saws With Replacement Circuit Boards (Washington, D.C.) -- The Singer Company, Stamford, Connecticut and Ranco Electric, Irving, Texas, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, today announced the recall of any Sears Craftsman Commercial Auto Scroller Saws, Model No. 315.26750 and Craftsman Multi-Speed Scroller Saws, Model No. 315.26710 which have previously been repaired with this replacement circuit board. Saws which have been repaired with this replacement circuit board could pose an electrical shock hazard. Only saws of these two model numbers repaired since October, 1980 through June, 1984, are subject to recall. The model number for the saws may be found on the saw motor plate. These saws were sold through Sears stores and catalogs between 1968 and 1972 for an estimated $60.00 each. However, the only saws affected are approximately 1,600 which were repaired with the Ranco circuit board between October, 1980 and June, 1984. There have been no reports of accidents or injuries associated with the use of the saws repaired with the replacement circuit boards. Consumers should immediately stop using these saws and return them to the Customer Service Counter of their nearest Sears store. The circuit boards will be replaced at no charge. Anyone wishing additional information may call toll-free 800-845-4781 (or 800-922-7780 in South Carolina).
Safety Tips For Fimco Electric Pressure Washers NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 1984 Release # 84-064 Fimco Offers Safety Tips For Electric Pressure Washers To Reduce Shock Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Fimco, Inc., of Sioux City, Iowa, today announced that it will voluntarily provide safety kits to modify the handles of its approximately 14,150 electric pressure washers purchased before January 1984. The affected washers, which pump water under high pressure to clean porches, houses, motor vehicles, outdoor power equipment or farm equipment, were sold nationally under the "Big Butch" trade name by various retailers and under the Sears brand name through Sears catalogs. There have been no injuries or deaths involving the Fimco machines; however; the Commission is aware of 10 electrocutions associated with other electric pressure washers. The washer does not present a hazard if operated according to instructions, according to Fimco. However, the metal handle or other exposed metal part could become electrically charged if the machine is not properly grounded and a fault occurs. Such fault could occur if an improper or faulty extension cord is used, if the connection between the power cord and an extension cord becomes wet or if a fault exists within the pressure washer's electrical system. Under these circumstances, a severe or fatal electric shock could result when the user touches the metal handle or other exposed metal part of the machine. The safety kit being offered consists of four easy to install insulated bolts that replace existing bolts. Consumers should call FIMCO toll-free at 800-831-0027 (in Iowa call 800-352-0016) to obtain the free kit and complete instructions. Consumers may also call the CPSC toll-free Hotline for information or assistance at 800-638-CPSC. The Commission's teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Safety Kit For Washers Offered by Britt Tech a voluntary program to provide safety kits to modify the handles of approximately 136,000 consumer and farm-use electric pressure washers made prior to mid-1983. The Commission and the company are aware of 6 deaths from electric shock related to use of pressure washers manufactured by Britt Tech. Under this program, Britt Tech and its private labelers will provide free material designed to isolate electrically the pressure washer's handle in order to prevent serious electric shock to consumers. Pressure washers are used to clean houses and other buildings and prepare them for painting and to clean shutters, patios, driveways and vehicles. They are frequently used on farms to clean buildings and machinery. Britt Tech and some private labelers will also voluntarily extend the scope of this program to cover commercial series units produced prior to February, 1984. While the firm believes its pressure washers do not present a hazard if operated in accordance with the operator's instructions and warnings on the machines and are not modified in any way, a severe or fatal electric shock can occur when a user contacts the handle of the pressure washer if the machine is ungrounded and a second fault occurs. This could happen if the power cord to extension cord connections become wet, or an improper or faulty extension cord is used, or a fault exists within the pressure washer electrical system. Britt Tech distributed these pressure washers nationally under the "Liquid Brush" trade name and a number of private label trade names (see list below). To obtain the free safety component kit and complete instructions, Iowa residents and others may write to Britt Tech Corporation, Department R, P.O. Box 216, Britt Iowa 50423. No phone number for the company is currently available. Use the address above for the following trade name pressure washers: Amity Atlas Chardon Lab's Power Edge Continental Oil's Dynalife Craft Toot and Machine Earl Grissmer's Blue Lustre Dirt Buster Gulf's Cruisemaster Jacobsen Kleen King Liquid Brush Mid-State's Dura-Wash Phillips Petroleun Speed Spray U.S. Chemical Z-4 Cleanomat Four companies who sell Britt Tech pressure washers have designated the following procedures if you have a machine manufactured under their name: Ford Tractor See Local Ford Tractor Dealer John Deere See local John Deere Dealer Massey Ferguson See local Massey Fergusan Dealer White Farm See local White Farm Dealer Please give the company the model and trade name and serial number of your pressure washer. This information may be found on a metal or foil serial number tag on your machine. This risk of electric shock may also exist with electric pressure washers produced by other manufacturers. Therefore, the Commission and Britt Tech Corporation warn consumers to take the following precautions when using any electric pressure washer: Always use a properly grounded receptacle. If possible, use a circuit protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter. Carefully follow all other warnings and operating instructions provided by the manufacturer. Keep all cord connections dry. Never remove the ground pin from a power cord or bypass a ground pin by using an adopter plug. Never cut or splice the electrical cord. Consumers may also call CPSC's toll-free Hotline for assistance at the following number 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
LP Valves Recalled by Robertshaw NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 16, 1984 Release # 84-032 $50 Bounty Offered For Robertshaw LP Valves Recall Washington, D. C. -- In cooperation with the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Robertshaw Controls Company, Richmond, Virginia, today announced a further expansion of its ongoing program to recover Unitrol 110 and 200 liquid propane (LP) gas water heater control valves by offering $50 cash and free replacement to homeowners who identify them in their homes. These valves, which were manufactured during the period of December 1954 through March 1957, may be involved in severe burn injuries and death resulting from explosion and fires. Since 1957, 48 deaths and 89 serious injuries involving water heaters using these controls have occurred. Although the controls are almost thirty years old, there is no practical way to estimate how many remain in use. In addition to the expanded notification efforts to recover the controls, the Commission and Robertshaw also announced the settlement of the Commission's pending action for a civil penalty against Robertshaw filed in Federal district court in Richmond, Virginia. The action was based on an allegation that Robertshaw had failed to comply with its obligation under Section 15 of the Consumer Product Safety Act to file an accurate report with the Commission concerning the controls. Robertshaw has agreed to pay the Commission $90,000 in settlement of the action. The CPSC voted unanimously to accept the corrective action plan. The CPSC voted 3 to 1 to accept the monetary settlement, with Commissioner Stuart M. Statler dissenting (dissent attached). In addition expanding its program to work with liquid propane dealers and service people to recover and replace affected controls, Robertshaw is now offering a $50 bounty to any user of LP gas who identifies the affected control value in their home, as well as a free replacement of it. Robertshaw is also commencing a notification effort through trade publications to further alert professionals who service or install LP-fueled water heaters to return to Robertshaw the controls they find instead of reusing them on other water heaters. Robertshaw is also continuing to pay these professionals a finder's fee for affected controls which are returned. Affected controls include Unitrol models 110 and 200, showing any date code which include the letters W or X, or the letter combinations LV, AY, BY or CY. Consumers can identify the affected units by looking for "Unitrol 110" on the face of the control or "Unitrol 200" on the temperature dial on the front of the control. The contsols located near the bottom of the water heater. Date codes are stamped next to the gas pilot outlet, which is located on the bottom side of the control and to the right. Use of a small mirror will aid consumers in reading the date code more easily. Consumers who own LP gas water heaters should check the heater control to determine if a Unitrol Model 110 or 200 with a.date code mentioned above has been used. If so, consumers should not attempt to remove or check the operation . of the controls themselves but rather should contact Robertshaw at its toll-free numbers 1-800-421-1130. In California call l-800-262-1173. Anyone wishing to verify the model numbers or the brand name should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Electric Space Heaters Recalled by Patton NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 18, 1984 Release # 84-025 Voluntary Recall Of Electric Space Heaters Washington, D.C.-- In cooperation with the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Patton Electric Company, New Haven, Indiana, today announced the voluntary recall because of a possible fire hazard of approximately 102,000 "Patton" and "Sears" brand portable electric space heaters made in Hong Kong. The CPSC has under investigation six incidents of fire, including one involving the death of an 18 month old baby, in houses where these heaters were being used. The electric heaters being recalled are small portable plastic models and have a "slide-type" control switch on the top. Consumers may identify the recalled units by looking at the bottom label of their heater for either Patton Model HF-10 or Sears Model 201-7208 and the words "Made in Hong Kong". Only the "Patton Heater Plus Fan", model HF-10 and the "Sears Heater Plus Fan", model 201-7208 are involved in the recall. Consumers owning these heaters are urged to stop using them and to unplug them from electrical outlets. Owners should call Patton at l-800-528-6600 Ext. 1722 (Arizona: l-800-352-0458 Ext. 1722; Alaska: l-800-528-0470 Ext. 1722) to verify that their heater is one of the recalled models and to obtain instructions for returning the heater to Patton for replacement at no cost. The heaters were sold nationwide between August 1983 and March 1984 in large chain stores including Sears, Roebuck & Co., as well as in small retail outlets. The units sold for under $30.00. Patton halted distribution of the heaters after reports from consumers indicated a possible fire hazard. Patton has notified all the retail outlets which sold the heaters to remove them from sale. Consumers who returned warranty cards on the suspect heaters will be notified of the recall directly by Patton. The company believes the potential fire hazard is related to the sliding type switch assembly and not to the heater itself. This switch, which utilizes a diode, was installed only in the heater models being recalled. All other Patton models are manufactured by Patton in the U.S. and have proven rotary dial temperature controls. Under the recall program, Patton Electric will modify and upgrade all suspect model heaters with a new rotary dial switch. This type of construction has been safely used for more than three years in other Patton heaters. The upgrading as well as all transportation charges will be at no cost to the consumer. Information concerning this recall is also available to consumers by calling CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Omnidirectional CB Antenna Recalled by Shakespeare NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 12, 1984 Release # 84-022 Shakespeare Company Recalls Omnidirectional CB Antenna Washington, D.C. --In cooperation with the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Shakespeare Company, Newberry, South Carolina, is voluntarily recalling two models of their omnidirectional CB base station antennas, Style 176-S and 176-SU. If contact is made by the antennas with an electrical power line while being installed or taken down, the antennas have the potential for severe or fatal shock. The CPSC stated that in tests conducted on the two models, they failed to comply with the new mandatory standard enforced by CPSC. The standard is intended to reduce the electrocution hazard if the antenna should accidentally contact a power line while being removed or installed. The CPSC is not aware of any injuries or deaths involving any of the Shakespeare antennas. The agency estimated, however, that approximately 45-50 individuals were electrocuted each year through 1981 as a result of CB antennas coming into contact with electrical power lines while the antennas are being put up or taken down. Therefore, consumers should not take down any of the recalled Shakespeare antennas which are already installed. The Shakespeare Company distributed 10,637 of the affected antennas nationwide from May through November of 1983. Each of these recalled antennas bears a three letter code located on the bottom of its metal sleeve and on the identification label on the end of the packaging tube as follows: CHF, CHE, CHD, CHC, CHB, CHA, CHL, CHM. The affected antennas have already been removed from dealers and replaced. Retailers who still have those models in stock should return them to the Shakespeare Company immediately for replacement. Consumers owning any of the models affected which have not been installed should contact Shakespeare, toll-free (800-845-7750) to verify if the antenna is subject to the recall. If so, the consumer should return the antenna to the dealer for a full refund. Consumers who have already installed the affected models should leave them alone. These persons can obtain an additional warning label (or hang tag) to be placed in a conspicuous location on the product to warn future users about the potential hazard. The label (or hand tag) can be obtained by calling the Shakespeare Company at its toll free number (800-845-7750) or writing the firm at RFD #3, P.O. Box 733, Newberry, South Carolina 29108. As a normal practice, individuals planning to install or take down a CB antenna should first contact their local power company for advice. Additional information concerning this recall is also available to consumers who call the CPSC toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Microwave Ovens Recalled by Microtronics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 12, 1984 Release # 84-024 CPSC Warns Of Fire Hazard With Microtronics Brand Microwave Oven Washington, D.C. --The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers of a fire hazard with microwave ovens manufactured by Microtronics Ltd., Inc., of Minneapolis, Minn. The manufacturer is no longer in business and therefore unable to recall the product. Forty eight complaints have been received, many reporting that the unit has self-started while unattended. No serious injuries or fires have occurred. The Commission believes that the unit may allow the microwaves to concentrate due to the failure of a stirrer mechanism. If the unit self-starts while unattended, these conditions could allow the unit to generate sufficient heat on the cabinet to ignite combustible material that may be stored on top or adjacent to the unit. The units have been produced since at least 1978. 57,645 units have been sold nationwide in the last three years alone under the brand names Astro Chef, Classic, and La Chef. The retail price was about $300. CPSC urges consumers who have one of these units to unplug the unit when not in use and store combustible material away from the microwave oven. If uneven cooking is occurring or any discoloration is noted on top of the cabinet, discontinue use. Consumers wishing further information may call the CPSC toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.