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Other consumer product recalls including personal care items, sporting goods, and miscellaneous products not in other categories.
Categories are assigned automatically based on product information. Some recalls here may belong in other categories, and some recalls in other categories may fit here. Use search to find specific products.
April 24, 1991 Release # 91-061 Lantec, Inc. Recalls Eco-Lite Charcoal Starter WASHINGTON, DC - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), LanTec, Inc., Litchfield, MN is voluntarily recalling approximately 100,000 bottles of Eco-Lite Charcoal Starter, 32 fl. oz. size. The product is much more flammable than ordinary charcoal lighter fluid and, if used or handled improperly around an ignition source, can be dangerous. Eco-Lite Charcoal Starter is an alcohol-based product that burns faster than other charcoal lighter fluids which are petroleum-based. The product may flash back to the bottle and explode if it is sprayed over hot charcoal. Initial complaints concerning this product were received on the CPSC's telephone hotline. The CPSC has learned of five reports of the bottles exploding in consumers' hands when this charcoal lighter fluid was sprayed on hot charcoal. Four of these explosions involved serious injuries, including hospitalizations for burns to the face, arms and hand, requiring skin grafts. The reason for the problem is that Eco-Lite is made of alcohol and has a low flash point. The other more familiar charcoal lighter fluids are made of petroleum products and have higher flash points. Eco-Lite Charcoal Starter is packaged in 32 fl. oz. white, plastic bottles with black and orange labeling and an orange cap. It has been distributed nationwide since 1987. Consumers are urged not to use the Eco-Lite Charcoal Starter. Since the product is biodegradable and environmentally safe, consumers can pour the content into a sink making sure to run cold water and keeping the product away from a spark source. Either return the rinsed empty bottle to the store where purchased or cut the UPC symbol off the back of the bottle and return UPC to the store for a refund. Consumers with questions about the recall may contact LanTec, Inc. at 612-693-2477, or write to the company at Box 1041, Litchfield, MN 55355. The CPSC's mission is to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. Some 15,000 different kinds of consumer products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year those products are involved in an estimated 29 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
April 19, 1991 Release # 91-059 WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Stanley Electronics Division of The Stanley Works, located in Novi, MI, announced the recall of several models of circuit boards used in the manufacture of Stanley and Fimbel Garage Door Openers. The company believed, due to a problem with printed circuit boards used in affected garage door openers, the door may open or close without warning. This condition renders the automatic reversal safety feature inoperable. As a result, when the door closes, it will not reverse as intended upon striking a person or object. This poses a risk of injury or death if entrapment occurs. The company reported this problem to the CPSC as soon as it became apparent. The company was not aware of any injuries. The automatic garage door openers were sold nationwide between January 14, 1991 and April 11, 1991, under the names Stanley and Fimbel (under the brands of Power Lift, and EZ Lift). The openers were sold by retail stores and garage door opener installers and dealers across the United States. While the majority of affected units were stopped in inventory, some 5,000 defective openers may be in consumers' possession. Brand names, model designations and date codes are as follows: - Stanley units affected have date codes 91-04-1 through 91-15-5. The date code is designated on a data plate located on the end panel at the back of the power unit. See illustration below. - Power Lift and EZ Lift units are both models 91R. The date codes affected are 01-21-91 through 04-11-91. The date code is found on the back panel in the lower right hand corner of the power unit. Consumers who purchased any of the openers should look on the power unit mounted on the garage ceiling for the date code. Owners of recalled openers should unplug and disconnect the opener immediately and then discard or destroy the product. As the company has sold its garage door division and is no longer involved with garage doors, there is no longer a remedy available as part of this recall. Continued use of affected doors in any but the manual mode of operation could result in serious injury or death. Failure to unplug the unit may result in electrical fire. The CPSC's mission is to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. Some 15,000 different types of consumer products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 29 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
Decorator Cube Safety Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Firm out of business. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Originally issued March 27, 1991; Revised July 10, 2001 (301) 504-7908 Release # 91-054 Decorator Cube Safety Warning WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, (CPSC), Seward Luggage Company of Petersburg, VA; Trojan Luggage of Memphis, TN; and Mercury Luggage Manufacturing Co. of Jacksonville, FL, today, issued a warning about a strangulation and suffocation hazard when decorator cubes with hinged lids manufactured prior to June 30, 1990 are used to store toys or children's belongings. These cubes, distributed nationwide during the past 2 1/2 years, are 16" X 16" X 16" cubed-shaped trunks with hinged lids decorated with various scenes and motifs. Decorator cubes manufactured after June 30, 1990 have removable lids. The decorator cubes may be appropriately used for storage and as a home furnishing. The cubes may present a strangulation hazard if the lid falls on the neck of a young child who is reaching into the trunk for a toy or other item. CPSC believes young children under the age of six years are at the greatest risk of injury. It was reported that a 14-month-old child died when a cube's lid allegedly fell on him. In addition, a young child could climb into a cube, become trapped inside and suffocate if the lid shuts. Approximately 2.2 million cubes have been distributed nationally by the three firms between 1987 and June 30, 1990. To prevent the possibility of strangulation or suffocation: Owners should remove the metal pin (used to hold the hinge together) from each of the two hinges, thereby making the lid removable. Owners of cubes who choose not to remove lids will be supplied with lid spacer clamps that will prevent the lid from slamming shut and a warning label to remind users of the potential hazards. Consumers should call 1-800-766-9417 to obtain free, easily installed spacer clamps, a warning label and further information if necessary, on the removal of the hinge pin. However, one of the firms, Seward Luggage Company, is out of business, so if the spacer clamps cannot be obtained for that firm's product, either remove the metal pin as described above, or discard or destroy the product.
March 20, 1991 Release # 91-050 CPSC Warns Consumers: Stop Using Certain Concept 'N' Motion Leg Toner Exercisers WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using Concept 'N' Motion Leg Toner Exercise Machines that have not been retrofitted with protective boots around the base of the machine's pedals. Without boots, these machines may present a risk of crushing the user's foot. These machines are cabinet-style electrically operated exercisers that were sold to commercial health clubs for approximately $300.00 each. The user lies on the machine's padded bed with legs elevated and feet buckled loosely into foot pedals. The Commission investigated one case based on a Freedom of Information Request in which a 28-year-old woman suffered a crushing injury to the back of her foot when her foot fell off the machine's pedal during use and became entrapped in moving gears. The Commission believes that on approximately the first 30 of these Leg Toners manufactured in 1986, an unguarded opening around the base of the foot pedal allows access to moving parts inside the cabinet. Although the manufacturer, which is no longer in business, attempted to retrofit these machines with a protective boot around the base of the pedals, a Commission investigation found that not all of the 30 affected units were retrofitted. Owners of these exercise machines should stop using them if they are not equipped with the protective boot. The CPSC is announcing this warning as a part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety
On-Wall Electrical Wiring Component Replacement Campaign NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: February 12, 1991 (301) 504-7908 Release # 91-035 "On-Wall" Electrical Wiring Component Replacement Campaign WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Wiremold Company of West Hartford, CT, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, has voluntarily initiated an inspection and replacement program to find and replace any cracked plastic electrical switchplate and outlet covers for their "On-Wall" series of surface wiring. The wires for this type of product are routed in channels on the surface of a wall as opposed to being located within the wall. Plastic covers for Wiremold receptacles and switches used in conjunction with "On-Wall" wiring should be inspected because covers installed too tightly may crack and break when exposed to some household oil-based products such as insect spray and cooking oils. If such cracking is severe, there is a possibility that the electrical wires may become exposed. Should wiring become exposed, there is a possibility of severe electrical shock if a consumer inadvertently comes in contact with the exposed wiring. This inspection and replacement effort includes plastic covers for duplex receptacles and switches installed primarily in apartments, condominiums and townhouses. The company is also asking consumers to examine plastic covers for receptacles and switches sold for do-it-yourself, "On-Wall" home wiring projects. Some 300,000 plastic components were sold between March 1986 and mid-1989. Wiremold learned of the problem when the City of Glendale, Arizona reported that over 100 plastic switchplate and outlet covers installed in subsidized housing had cracked. Since the Glendale incident, the firm has received two additional individual complaints of cracking. However, there have been no reports of electric shock or injury. The products include duplex receptacle catalog #843G and switch #840 which were sold to wholesalers; and duplex receptacle #NM12 (retail price approximately $7), switch #NM13 (retail price approximately $6), and outlet kit #NM100 (retail price approximately $35) which were sold to retailers for purchase by consumers. The "Wiremold" name and catalog numbers are stamped on the rear of the plastic back plate of the receptacles and inside the cover of the switches. Consumers who purchased these plastic covers manufactured within the last four years, or moved into an apartment, condominium or townhouse since March 1986 that contains them should have the plastic covers inspected for cracks. Consumers without electrical experience should not disassemble the wiring parts for the inspection or for model verification. If cracks have occurred, consumers should call The Wiremold Company collect at 1-203-523-3689 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to make arrangements to have the plastic covers of any cracked units replaced free of charge with improved Wiremold models NM2 or NM3. When the new plastic covers are received, only an electrician or other similarly experienced person should remove and replace the cracked covers. If consumers have any unopened products still in the original packaging, they may be sent to The Wiremold Company, P.O. Box 10639, West Hartford, CT 06110-0639, Attn: Al Blake for a full refund of the purchase price including postage. The CPSC is issuing this warning as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. Some 15,000 different types of consumer products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths.
CONTACT: October 30, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-166 Halloween Advisory Trick-Or-Treat Erasers Voluntarily Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lisa Frank, Inc., of Tucson, AZ, has voluntarily elected to recall approximately 200,000 packages of its colorful Halloween Erasers which may pose a choking hazard to small children. These multi-colored Halloween Erasers are sold 15 to a package. The front of the package reads: "Lisa Frank Halloween Erasers, Cool Collectibles." The erasers resemble Halloween items such as pumpkins, skulls, bats and ghosts and because of their bright colors and size could be mistaken for candy. The erasers were imported from Taiwan. While the package is labeled "Not Recommended for Children 4 Years of Age and Under", it was the concern of Lisa Frank, Inc. and CPSC that people handing out the erasers as Trick-or-Treat handouts would given them to small children. The small erasers are not appropriate for younger children. The packages of erasers sold for approximately $1.89 each. This is the second Halloween season the erasers have been distributed nationwide, and neither CPSC nor Lisa Frank, Inc., are aware of any injuries involving this product. It is believed that the erasers would not be given out until the night of Halloween, so this voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Consumers are urged not to use these erasers as Halloween handouts. Consumers may return the product to the store where purchased for a full refund of the purchase price. Consumers with questions about this recall may contact Lisa Frank, Inc., at 602-624-1903. CPSC reminds adults to carefully examine any toy or novelty items received by trick-or-treaters under three years of age. Do not allow young children to have any items that are small enough to present a choking hazard or that have small parts or components that could separate during use and present a choking hazard. This reminder is for parents and anyone handing out such items to trick-or-treaters. The CPSC is announcing this recall as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumers products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for product safety. Some 15,000 products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
Automatic Drip Coffeemakers Recalled by Proctor-Silex NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: August 23, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-139 Proctor-Silex Voluntarily Recalls Certain Automatic Drip Coffeemakers Made In 1985/86 That May Pose Fire Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Proctor-Silex, Inc. today announced the voluntary recall of certain discontinued Proctor-Silex, Sears and J.C. Penney brand automatic drip coffeemaker models manufactured in 1985/86 which present a potential fire hazard. The recall includes certain Proctor-Silex coffeemakers with model numbers that begin with A4 or A5 and series numbers that end with 58 or 68. Recalled Sears Counter Craft and Sears Kenmore coffeemakers are models 360.480293 and 360.480272 (last digit may vary). Recalled J.C. Penney coffeemakers have the model number 784-2178H (or G) and a "C" number ending in 58 or 68. (See step-by-step instructions and full listings attached.) Coffeemakers manufactured after 1985 with model numbers beginning with A6 are not being recalled. Owners of these coffeemakers should call a toll-free number, 1-800-341-3333, to determine whether their coffemakers are included in the recall, and to get instructions on how to return them and to obtain reimbursement for shipping. The recalled coffeemakers are not repairable, and owners should unplug and stop using them immediately. Proctor-Silex will send each owner a new coffeemaker free of charge. Consumers are being asked to check the automatic drip coffeemakers at their place of work, as well as at home, to see if they have been recalled. The company believes that thermostats and thermal fuses purchased by Proctor-Silex for use in the coffeemaker may both malfunction causing overheating and a potential fire hazard. Proctor-Silex has received approximately 181 reports that their coffeemakers caught fire, including a number with property damage and a report of one minor burn injury that occurred when an owner attempted to pick up an overheated unit. Proctor-Silex estimates that approximately 800,000 of these coffeemakers are still in use. Owners of other Proctor-Silex, Sears Counter Craft, Sears Kenmore and J.C. Penney coffeemakers, which are not being recalled, should not call the 800 number. The lines need to be kept open for the owners of the recalled coffeemakers. Grocery stores nationwide and retail outlets who sold these coffeemakers have been provided detailed information available to consumers to assist them in the identification of the recalled units.
Builders Square Recalling "Bay Breeze" Ceiling Fans NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: July 25, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-130 Builders Square Recalling "Bay Breeze" Ceiling Fans WASHINGTON, DC -- Builders Square, Inc., of San Antonio, TX, is voluntarily recalling some 10,000 52-inch "Bay Breeze" ceiling fans sold from October 1989 to May 7, 1990, because the rotating blades could separate from the motor assembly. "Bay Breeze" ceiling fans being recalled are: Model TC52BC5B(L), a five-blade black-and-chrome fan with four lights which sold for $79; Model CH52GB4B(L), a four-blade crystal-and-brass fan with four lights which sold for $79; Model GL52WH5B (L), a five-blade white-and-brass fan with one light which sold for $84; Model GL52BK5B (L), a five-blade black-and-brass fan with one light which sold for $84; Model 52DUV4SPBB, a five-blade black-and-chrome fan with four lights which sold for $79; Model 52DUV/CR, a four-blade crystal-and-brass fan with four lights which sold for $79; Model 52DUV3PVWH, a five-blade white-and-brass fan with one light which sold for $84; Model 52DUV3PVBLK, a five-blade black-and-brass fan with one light which sold for $84. Builders Square said these ceiling fans are equipped with metal fan blade bracket holders which may break, allowing the blade to separate from the motor while the fan is in use. Builders Square, Inc. learned of these defective fans from seven customer complaints, involving one minor injury, which the firm reported to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While some 27,000 ceiling fans were imported from China, only 10,200 fans were sold to consumers. Consumers having any of these "Bay Breeze" ceiling fans should discontinue using the fan and return it to any Builders Square store for a refund of the purchase price. Consumers may call the company toll-free at 1-800-634-5949 for additional information about the recall.
July 11, 1990 Release # 90-128 Replacement Program For Sesame Street Rhythm Band Set WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), LEWCO Corp., New York, NY, has announced a replacement program for the Oscar the Grouch Cymbals contained in its Model #3553, Sesame Street Rhythm Band Set. When tested in accordance with the CPSC's Small Parts Requirements, the Oscar the Grouch "heads" detached from the cymbals and could present a choking hazard to young children. LEWCO Corp. is offering to replace the cymbals with new cymbals that have been redesigned to eliminate the small parts hazard. Approximately 9,200 units were sold nationwide from January 1, 1989 to April 16, 1990 for approximately $20.00 each. The toys were imported from China. The set consists of a Sesame Street marching drum and drum sticks, Bert and Ernie maracas, Little Bird slide whistle, Cookie Monster tambourine and Oscar the Grouch cymbals. Embossed on the inside of the drum and tambourine are the words "Blue Box Toys, Made in China, Muppets, Inc." Embossed on the handles of the maracas are the words "Made in China, Muppets, Inc." The cymbals are the only part of this musical instrument set subject to this replacement program. Consumers are urged to discard the original cymbals immediately. Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary replacement is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Consumers who desire a cymbal replacement set should contact LEWCO Corp. at:LEWCO Corp.1107 Broadway - Suite 905New York, New York 1001
New Toll-Free Hotline For 'Exerciser' Recall NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: July 5, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-123 New Toll-Free Hotline For 'Exerciser' Recall WASHINGTON, DC--Harrison-Hoge Industries of Port Jefferson, NY, which last week recalled some 700,000 "Stomach Eliminator" exercisers, has announced a new nationwide toll-free hotline for consumers to obtain information about the product recall. The new number is 1-800-852-0925. Sold from 1985 to December, 1989, the exerciser is being recalled because a spring or clip may break when the product is being used, possibly resulting in facial or body injuries.
June 28, 1990 Release # 90-117 Spring Exercisers Recalled; Breaking Springs, Clips Are Hazard WASHINGTON, DC--In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Harrison-Hoge Industries Inc., of New York, NY announces a recall of the New Gym "Stomach Eliminator" exercisers sold from 1985 to December 1989. In the majority of 62 incidents reported to the firm and CPSC, a spring, clip or footpedal of the exerciser broke during use and struck the user, which resulted in serious facial or body injury. Some 700,000 exercisers were sold nationwide through mail order and retail stores for approximately $10 to $20 each. The "Stomach Eliminator" exercisers have three, 12-inch, black metal springs attached to a black plastic handlebar and footbar. The words, "Made in Italy" or "Brevattato" are found on the footbar, footstrap, or handlebar. Consumers should immediately discontinue use of the New Gym "Stomach Eliminators" and call Harrison-Hoge at 1-800-852-0925, Mon - Fri 8:30 to 4:30 Eastern Time. Harrison-Hoge is offering a $15 refund or a $20 credit toward other Harrison-Hoge products. To obtain the refund or credit, customers must send back the handlebar as proof of purchase to Harrison-Hoge Industries, Inc., 200 Wilson Street, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
June 21, 1990 Release # 90-115 Retrofit Program Announced For Spring Exercisers WASHINGTON, D.C.--Dynamic Classics, Ltd. of New York City, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today announced a repair program for its spring exercisers called the "Rowing Action Exerciser." Early models of the exerciser were involved in injuries resulting mainly from the spring breaking or the footbar separating during use. Some two million exercisers of the earlier model were sold nationwide from 1984 to August 1987. Approximately 60 incidents have been reported to CPSC and the firm, most of which involved a broken spring or a footbar assemble coming apart. Consumers have experienced bruises, cuts and lacerations to the face and other parts of the body when the handlebar or spring stuck the user. Incidents showed that the spring of the Rowing Action Exerciser, if extended too far to withstand the stress, could snap. Dynamic Classics is offering owners of the older models a free retrofit kit, which is designed to prevent the spring breaking and the footbar separating. The retrofit kit includes a safety cord to prevent over-stretching and over-stressing the spring, metal brackets to prevent over-stressing the spring loop, and a new extended footbar to prevent separation. Rowing Action Exercisers sold after August 1987 do not need retrofitting. They can be identified by metal brackets already attached to the top and bottom of the spring and a safety cord installed inside the spring. Earlier models had no brackets and a longer safety cord. Consumers should immediately discontinue the use of older models of the Rowing Action Exerciser, which do not have metal brackets attached to both ends of the spring. Consumers should call Dynamic Classics, Ltd. toll-free at 1-800-284-8492 to received a retrofit kit. Consumers may also write to: Dynamic Classics, Ltd., 95 Mayhill Street, Saddle Brook, NJ 07662. Consumers no longer using the older Rowing Action Exerciser or not wishing to repair the device should discard the exerciser so no one else may use it
May 11, 1990 Release # 90-096 Lionel Leisure, Inc. Recalls Big Bird Trike WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lionel Leisure, Inc., Philadelphia, PA is voluntarily recalling Big Bird Trike manufactured by Illco Toy Company, Inc. This trike has small screws beneath Big Bird's feet which are small parts and which may separate from the toy producing a choking or aspiration hazard to young children. The Big Bird Trike (Model #8820R) is blue with two green wheels on the back and one green wheel on the front with the words "BIG BIRD" just above the tire. Big Bird is bright yellow with orange legs that have pink rings from his knees to his ankles. Embossed on the trike next to the orange wind-up key are the words "Made in Macau". In the same location on the other side of the trike are the words "Muppets Inc. an Illco Toy." When wound up Big Bird makes a rattle sound and pedals the trike while moving his head back and forth and his tail up and down. Approximately 3,000 toys were sold from June 1989 to January 1990 for approximately $9.00 each in Lionel Kiddie City, Lionel Playworld and Lionel Toy Warehouse Stores. While neither CPSC nor Lionel Leisure is aware of any injuries associated with these toys, this corrective action is being taken to prevent the possibility of such injury. Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund of the purchase price. Consumers with additional concerns or questions about this recall may contact Lionel Leisure at (215) 671-3800. The potentially hazardous toys were identified by CPSC during routine surveillance of the marketplace
May 10, 1990 Release # 90-093 O'Brien Recalls Pro Flow Water Ski Bindings On Selected 1989 Skis Washington, D.C.-- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), O'Brien International of Redmond WA has announced a product recall of Pro Flow waterski bindings sold after September 1, 1988 and before December 31, 1989. The Pro Flow bindings are on O'Brien TRC, Competitor X, Pro Circuit and Splendor slalom models skis. Five skiers have reported injuries associated with Pro Flow binding which pulled apart and exposed sharp screws which caused foot lacerations. The Pro Flow waterski bindings have a high wrap, open toe boot design. The words "Pro Flow" and the O'Brien trademark "O" are located above the three horizontal white stripes on the heel of the binding. Only those O'Brien bindings with the white stripes on the boots are involved. Consumers who have this model O'Brien waterski binding should call O'Brien's consumer recall action line (1-800-284-SKIS) with questions and for repair instructions. The consumer will be provided with a repair kit and instructions to fix the potential problem or the owner can have the bindings repaired by a local authorized dealer or O'Brien International. In addition, O'Brien International is offering a corduroy hat to those owners requesting kits and making the repair. The action line is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Eastern time
April 18, 1990 Release # 90-076 Oriental Trading Company, Inc. Recalls Two Wooden Trains Because Of Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Oriental Trading Company, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska is voluntarily recalling two models of wooden trains because of small parts which could detach and become a choking hazard to young children. When the CPSC tested the wooden trains in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, wooden pegs, wheel axles, smoke stacks and the alphabet man's head came off or separated. Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The trains were sold by mail order catalog and by retailers from December 1988 to the present. The trains are described as follows:TRAIN ALPHABETIC SPELLING (ITEM #WP 257 27/58) consists of an engine with a pull cord and three cars. Each car has a flat bed with letters of the alphabet painted on rectangular wooden men and are attached by wooden pegs. Approximately 2,200 units were distributed nationwide for $3.95 each. GOODS TRAIN (ITEM #27/46) consists of a multi-colored engine and three multi-colored cars with red wooden wheels. Each car carries various wooden items, including a hopper car and a tank car. A pull cord is attached with a wooden bead on the end. Approximately 3,500 units were distributed nationwide for $5.40 each.Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children immediately. Consumers owning either the Goods Train or the Alphabetic Spelling Train should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers who purchased either wooden train from Oriental by direct mail catalog may return them to the company at 4206 South 108th Street, Omaha, NE 68137 for a refund plus postage. Consumers with questions about this recall may call the company at 1-800-327-9678
April 10, 1990Release # 90-068 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- If you own certain Hedstrom and Sears brand gym sets with "glide rides," and they haven't been retrofitted with glide guards to prevent potential finger amputations and lacerations, you should stop using and discard the product immediately. Hedstrom renewed its campaign to provide free glide guards to owners of sets sold from 1982 to July 1, 1988, because of low consumer response to its original offer and because 19 additional injuries have been reported. This announcement was made at this time to avoid additional injuries as the weather gets warmer and children are more likely to play on the unrepaired gym sets. The affected model numbers are: Hedstrom Brand numbers 4-277, 4-377, 4-677, 4-777, 4-778, 4-877; and Sears Brand numbers 72226, 72026 and 72066. The model number is on an identification label located on the top bar of the gym set. Each model has a 2-3/8 inch diameter top bar with a glide ride assembly attached with a V- bolt bracket. Approximately 370,000 of these models were sold. In November 1988 Hedstrom and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) originally announced that glide guards were available for these gym sets. At that time the firm was aware of 12 incidents where a child stood on the slide or crossbar, reached over to propel or stop the motion of the glide ride, and entrapped or pinched a finger in the bracket mechanism. The reported injuries included severed or amputated fingertips and severe lacerations. Since then 19 more serious injuries have been reported and only about 14,000 consumers have requested the free glide guards. Hedstrom and the Commission are very concerned about the continuing incidents and low response rate and are making another effort to reach owners of unrepaired models. If you have one of the models listed above, and it has not been equipped with a glide guard, please help prevent further injuries. Stop using and discard or destroy the product. The firm is out of business and the repair program is no longer available
April 4, 1990 Release # 90-067 Media Materials, Inc. Warns Consumers About Colored Beads and Laces WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Media Materials, Inc. of Baltimore, Maryland is voluntarily warning consumers, day care centers, school supply houses, specialty store showrooms, museums, etc. that the beads included with their Colored Beads and Laces sets could present a fatal choking hazard to young children. The company estimates that 15,000 sets, #470, have been sold nationwide since 1984 for about $9.95 each. The Colored Beads and Laces consist of 100 multi-colored round and square wooden pieces with holes in the middle for stringing the laces. The toy came in a white box which stated in part: "MM Media Materials...COLORED BEADS and LACES...One-Half Inch Spheres Cubes and Cylinders...CAUTION: Use with care with children under 3." Future versions of this product will be labeled more explicitly warning consumers that the product is not for use by children under age three. CPSC urges parents, day care operators, and other care givers who purchased the product to take steps to ensure that children under three not be allowed to use it
March 26, 1990 Release # 90-056 International Marketing Source, Inc. Recalls 600 Alphabet Block Sets WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), International Marketing Source, Inc., Franklin Park, Illinois, is voluntarily recalling 600 alphabet block sets because the set's frame may separate and result in small parts that could present a fatal choking hazard to young children. The wood toy from China was distributed primarily in the midwestern states during 1989 for about $5.00 each. The product consists of 30 blocks in rows of six with painted pictures, letters, and numbers on each side mounted on a frame with dowels. Plastic ring/washers separate each block. Red letters on the top of the frame read "Learn The Alphabet". Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children and return them to the store where purchased for a refund of the purchase price. Consumers with questions about this recall may contact International Marketing Source, Inc. at (708) 678-8100. The potentially hazardous toys were identified during a joint surveillance program conducted between the U.S. Customs Service and CPSC at the Port of Chicago
CONTACT: February 22, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-040 Aerosol String Streamers Recalled For Propellant Flammability WASHINGTON, D.C.- - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today the voluntary recall of five different brands of aerosol string streamers. These products, used like confetti at birthday parties and other gatherings, are hazardous if sprayed near an open flame, due to the flammability of the propellant used with the products. The companies participating in this recall are Northeast Imports, Inc., Central Falls, RI; Masquerade, Inc., Brooklyn, NY; Topstone Industries, Inc., Danbury, CT; Franco-American Novelty, Co., Inc., Glendale, NY; and Fun World Inc., Carle Place, N.Y. Tests by the CPSC show that these products, marketed during the past year, are flammable and therefore banned under provisions of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act because of their use by children. Use of these products around flame sources such as birthday candles could result in serious burn injuries if the spray contacts a flame. The CPSC learned of this problem through consumer complaints to its hotline. Reports of serious burn injuries to both children and adults involving these and similar products have been investigated. Typically the victims are burned during birthday parties when friends or family spray the string streamer near or onto the candles of a birthday cake. The products are packaged in aerosol cans having various colored plastic overcaps indicating the color of the string streamer inside the can. Individual product identification is as follows: - Northeast Imports, Inc., Central Falls, RI 3.5 oz. cans having a lithographed or paper label with a green background labeled in part "Streamer Spray" - Masquerade, Inc., Brooklyn, NY 150 gram cans having a lithographed label with a white background labeled in part "MASQUERADE CRAZY STRINGS" - Topstone Industries, Inc., Danbury, CT 3.5 oz. cans having a lithographed label with a black background labeled in part "Tricky Fun String Environmentally Safe Contains No Fluorocarbons". (Cans of Tricky Fun String without this statement do not present the flammability hazard and are not being recalled.) - Franco-American Novelty Co., Inc., Glendale, NY 3.5 oz. cans having a lithographed label with a blue background labeled in part "GOOFY FLYING STRING" - Fun World Inc., Carle Place, NY 3.5 oz. and 7 oz. cans having a lithographed label reading in part "ITS FUN TYME! STRING CONFETTI" and an added clear adhesive label reading "SAFE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT FLUOROCARBON FREE." "STRING CONFETTI" cans which have had the clear adhesive label removed because of use are also being recalled. A total of approximately 1,135,000 cans of all five brands of string streamer were sold nationwide during the past year for less than $5.00 per can at retail. Consumers should immediately discontinue the use of these products and return them to the retail store where purchased for a full refund of the purchase price
CONTACT: February 15, 1990 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-037 "Simoniz" Quick Gloss Is Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced a voluntary recall of a new aerosol automotive appearance product, "SIMONIZ" Quick Gloss, because the product's aerosol metal container may rupture. This could result in the metal dome (not the plastic cap) of the container separating under pressure causing injury to the user or bystanders. CPSC was informed of this hazard by SIMONIZ, of Danbury, CT, when consumers reported three incidents to the firm. These incidents involved can failure in which the aerosol container apparently corroded, causing a build-up in pressure and rupture of the can. SIMONIZ is not aware of any injuries associated with the incidents. Approximately 200,000 cans of the product were distributed nationally, for about $4.00 at retail, since February 1989. Consumers should spray the contents of the aerosol cans into a waste container away from any open flame and immediately dispose of the containers as they normally would do with their trash. As with any aerosol container, these cans should not be punctured or disposed of in an incinerator or trash compactor. For information on how to receive a full refund of the purchase price of the product, consumers should call SIMONIZ toll-free at 1-800-243-6400 and provide the product code number, appearing on the bottom of the can, and the purchase price