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All product recalls affecting Arizona.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Arizona in the distribution area.
Hair Dryers Corrected by Manufacturers NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 1979 Release # 79-061 Commission Approves Corrective Plans For 26 Manufacturers Of Asbestos Hair Dryer WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 1) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has voted unanimously to accept the voluntary corrective action plans of 26 manufacturers and importers of hand-held hair dryers made with asbestos. The 26 companies account for nearly 10 per cent of those hand- held hair dryers manufactured with asbestos since 1969. The other 90 per cent were distributed by 11 manufacturers and private labelers whose corrective actions were approved by the Commission last May. Among the 26 manufacturers and private labelers, eight have agreed to repair their hair dryers: three have agreed to refund the purchase price or replace the dryers with asbestos-free dryers: and 15 have agreed to exchange their dryers for refunds, new asbestos- free dryers or other products manufactured or imported by the firm. Nearly 100 different models and styles of hair dryers are covered under these corrective action plans. Since May, 1979, CPSC has ordered 146 corporations to submit sworn information regarding the use of asbestos in their hair dryers. The 26 companies listed below informed CPSC that the heat shields in their dryers contained asbestos (but that no other dryer parts exposed to the dryers' airstream contained asbestos). None of the remaining 120 firms reported having manufactured hair dryers containing asbestos. The companies which have agreed to repair or accept returns of their hair dryers include: Afro Products, Inc., of Ottuma, Iowa; Allied Stores Marketing Corp., of New York City; Arrow Trading Co., New York City; B&E Sales Co., of Detroit, Michigan; Brother International Corp., of Piscataway, New Jersey; Formac, Inc., of City of Industry, California; Hartman Products of Hawthorne, California; W.P. Hemenway Co., of Portland, Oregon; Hairaoka New York Inc., of New York City; Hitachi Sales Corp. of Compton, California; Interpur (a division of Dart Industries) of Orlando, Florida; and M.S.S. Direct Ltd., of Hauppauge, New York. Also included are: Market Importing Services Inc., of New York City; New York Merchandise Co. of New York City.; Pace Setter of Burbank, California: Panasonic Co. of Secaucus, New Jersey; Pearlduck Inc., of Garden City, New York; Sanyei New York Corp. of New York City; Sanyo Electric Inc., of Compton, California; Save-Way Industries Inc. of Hialeah, Florida; Swank Co., Inc., of New York City; T.G. & Y. Stores Co. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Wakefern Food Corp. of Elizabeth, New Jersey; Windsor Industries, Inc., of Melville, New York; F.W. Woolworth Co. of New York City; and Zayre Corp. of Framingham, Massachusetts. Many of these companies maintain that hair dryers containing asbestos have not been proven to present a health hazard. CPSC staffers have compiled a list providing the specific corrective actions which the 26 individual firms have agreed to perform. The list can be obtained free by writing to: Hair Dryers, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C., 20207. Consumers also can obtain specific information about the plans by contacting CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Blow-Gun Toys Recalled by Western NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 26, 1979 Release # 79-060 Wisconsin Manufacturer Agrees To Recall 180,300 Blow-Gun Toys WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 26) -- Approximately 180,000 "Soft Shot Star Launcher" blow-gun toys which may pose a choking hazard to children are being recalled voluntarily by their manufacturer, the Western Publishing Company, of Racine, Wisconsin. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The toy consists of a white plastic tube and mouthpiece which measure approximately 29 inches in overall length. It is sold with three small cardboard targets and three orange darts molded of soft vinyl, each approximately three inches long. The company is recalling the toys based on consumer reports since July, 1979, of three children who choked on the toy's mouthpiece. In each instance, the mouthpiece reportedly separated from the plastic tube and lodged in the child's throat. No critical injury or illness resulted from any of these incidents, according to the company. A fourth similar incident was reported to CPSC and is being investigated by Commission staff. The company reported to CPSC that, despite the potential hazard, the toy meets or exceeds all existing voluntary product safety standards. Model number 4990 is printed on the toy's package, although the toy itself and its components do not display any distinguishing identification. Manufactured and distributed earlier this year, the toy sold for approximately $2 in toy stores and other variety retail stores nationwide. The manufacturer has directed all retailers and distributors of the toys to stop sales. Parents should return the toy to the retailer from which it was purchased to receive a cash refund. Consumers also can obtain refunds (including reimbursement for postage costs) by mailing the toys to: Western Publishing Company, 1220 Mound Avenue, Racine, Wisconsin, 53404, Attention: Customer Relations Director.
Energy-Saving Devices Warned NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 15, 1979 Release # 79-058 Consumers Warned On Dangerous Energy-Saving Devices WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 15) -- Citing the critical need for consumers to save energy safely, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers to stop using two types of faulty energy-saving devices which regulate home thermostats. Approximately 20,000 "Automatic Day/Night" thermostat controls were manufactured by the Fuel Sentry Corporation of Mt. Vernon, New York. An additional 19,500 "Home Energy Saver" thermostat controls were manufactured by the Fuel Gard Corporation of Glastonbury, Connecticut. Both types of potentially hazardous devices consist of a small rectangular heater and an electric timer. The heaters were designed to be mounted on the wall beneath the thermostat and connected to the electrical timer which plugs into a household socket. At predesignated times, the heater warms the thermostat, causing it to shut off the home furnace. The heaters were manufactured with integral carbon resistors which may overheat and start fires. The defective heaters have caused at least 17 instances of sparking or flaming since July, 1977. In two instances, the adhesive backing of the heater melted, causing the heater to fall to the floor onto combustible materials. No injuries have been reported. CPSC staff believes the timers can be used safely with other appliances. The thermostat controls were sold nationwide in hardware and department stores for retail prices ranging from $20 to $25 Some of the Fuel Gard units were given away for promotional purposes. Details Of Fuel Sentry Alert The potentially hazardous Fuel Sentry heaters were manufactured between September, 1976 and August, 1977, and between November, 1977 and May, 1978. They are labeled "Activator" on the front and display a date code on the back which falls within the following ranges: 396 through 526; 017 through 327; 437 through 527; and 018 through 218. In addition, only "Activators" containing a brown-colored carbon resistor (visible through the key-hole slot in the back) are potentially hazardous. Units with resistors of another color are believed to be safe, even though they may carry one of the date codes listed above. Fuel Sentry announced a recall of their product in 1978, but fewer than half the units were returned by consumers. The company since has filed for bankruptcy and is no longer repairing the devices. Owners of affected Fuel Sentry thermostat controls should return the products to their retailers, many of whom are offering refunds or replacements. Owners of Fuel Sentry units who cannot obtain a refund or replacement unit from retailers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772. Fuel Gard Alert The Fuel Gard heaters were manufactured with a simulated wood finish and were labeled "Fuel Gard" in raised lettering. CPSC staff is working to develop a corrective program with Fuel Gard to enable consumers to return defective units; details will be announced in a subsequent press release. Save Energy Safely CPSC staff warns consumers that energy-conservation devices which are improperly installed, designed or manufactured can result not only in fire hazards, but also in carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shocks or explosions. CPSC staff will continue to monitor the marketplace to detect defective products which should be recalled, but urges consumers to be alert to the potential safety problems of devices such as furnace vent dampers, flue gas recirculators, clothes dryer exhaust diverters and other modifications to existing energy equipment and appliances.
Giggle Stick Toys Recalled by CBS Toys NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 3, 1979 Release # 79-056 4 Million "Giggle Stick" Toys Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 3) -- CBS Toys, a division of CBS, Inc., of New York City, is voluntarily recalling four million units of a toy which may pose a choking hazard to children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced. The toy, called the Gabriel "Giggle Stick", consists of a hollow, yellow plastic tube which, when shaken, produces noises by means of a metal reed fastened inside an interior plastic cylinder. Young children can remove the red end-caps of the toy, exposing the interior plastic cylinder which houses the small reed inside. Some reeds have fallen out of those "Giggle Sticks" designed with open-end caps. Since March, 1979, three children have choked on the reeds, according to CBS Toys. No injuries have resulted. The "Giggle Sticks" have been manufactured since December, 1978, and sold in variety stores nationwide for less than $2. The toys are advertised as suitable for children ages 3 and older. Parents should return the toys to their retailers for a refund or a new "Giggle Stick" which has been redesigned to eliminate the safety hazard. Consumers also can receive a refund or a new "Giggle Stick" by mailing their used ones to: Gabriel Industries, Longmeadow Road, P.O. Box 980, Hagerstown, Maryland, 21740. In retail stores, consumers can identify a redesigned "Giggle Stick" by looking for the words, "New, Improved" on the red cardboard flag wrapped around the toy.
Valves On Gas Grills Recalled by King Seeley Thermos NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-053 Valves On Gas Grills Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1 ) -- Thousands of valves on portable gas grills which may pose a fire hazard are being recalled by their manufacturer, the King Seeley Thermos Company, in Prospect, Heights, Illinois. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Due to the manufacturer's use of a defective supply of adhesive, some of the 23,383 grills may have faulty valves which leak propane gas. No injuries have been reported. The grills measure 13 by 23 inches. They have been manufactured since January, 1979 and contain a small one-pound propane cylinder. They have been sold nationwide under the "Structo" brand name in hardware stores and other retail outlets for approximately $40 to $60. The valves are on models 7962, 7963, 7964, 7965 and 7966. Model 7964 was sold exclusively by K-Mart retail outlets. The model numbers are listed in the instruction manual which accompanied the product, but not on the product itself. Consumers can obtain a free replacement gas valve by placing a collect call to the company at 815/235-8852. To verify model numbers, consumers also may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Spear Guns Recalled by AMF NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-055 Defective Spear Guns Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- More than 1,800 underwater spear guns which can fire accidentally at users or bystanders are being recalled voluntarily by AMF, Inc., of Des Moines, Iowa. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. AMF, Inc., is a manufacturer and importer of recreational and sporting equipment. A defect in the guns' "trigger shock-line retainers" can cause unintentional firing if the shock-lines are wrapped too tightly around the retainer, or if the taut lines and gun barrel are held together. (The "trigger shock-line retainer" is a small mechanism which holds the lines in place.) The company has received four complaints involving unintentional firing of the weapons since July, 1979. No injuries have been reported. The recall affects "AMF Mares Underwater Spear Guns" sold under the following brand names and model numbers: Model Numbers Brand Names 5300 Long Tom 6334108 Supersten 5302 Sharp Shooter 5304 Californian 5306 Frontiersman 5308 Shortie 5310 Snub Nose 6333503 Competizione 6334009 Sten 6333008 Medisten 6331006 Ministen 6330005 Miniministen Consumers should return the guns to the dealers from whom they were purchased for free modification. Anyone requiring additional information about this recall should place a collect call to Sea Quest, Inc., Mares (a distributor of AMF Mares products in Solana Beach, California) at 714/481-8877. Consumers may verify model numbers by contacting CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Scuba Regulators Recalled by Under Sea NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-051 Scuba Regulators Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- Second-stage scuba regulators which may pose a drowning hazard to divers are being recalled by their manufacturer, Under Sea Industries, Inc., in Compton, California. A second-stage regulator consists of the diver's mouthpiece and the "purge," which is a button used to clear water from the mouthpiece. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. An integral exhaust valve, which enables the diver to exhale, may dislodge from its proper position if the purge is depressed and the diver's tongue is blocking the mouthpiece. This can cause the regulator to flood. The unintentional application of silicon lubricant to the valve or valve seat during servicing is believed to cause the valve displacement. Approximately 800 of these regulators have been sold in diving stores nationwide at retail prices ranging from $90 to $150. The company previously notified its dealers and some consumers about the recall, but poor response has prompted this additional bulletin. The recall applies to the "SCUBAPRO" model 11-108-000 second-stage regulator and to model 12-103-000 and 12-010-000 regulator systems, which include the potentially defective valve. The model numbers appear on the packaging carton and the warranty card. Divers who have purchased these regulators or had them serviced between September 12, 1978, and April, 1979, should return them to any authorized "SCUBAPRO" dealer for free repairs. Dealers are listed in the "Yellow Pages" section of the telephone directory under the heading, "Divers' Equipment and Supplies." To verify model numbers, consumers may contact CPSC's toll- free Hotline 800/638-2772.
Power Mowers Modified by Sunbeam NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-052 Power Mowers To Be Modified WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct.1) -- The Sunbeam Outdoor Co., has instituted a program to modify approximately 8,900 electric lawn mowers which may pose electrical shock hazards to users. The program is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Sunbeam Outdoor Company, of Manning, South Carolina, is a division of the Sunbeam Corporation. The program applies only to models 3227 and 3228 "Sunbeam" electrical mowers. They have been sold nationwide since 1978 at a retail price of approximately $140. The mowers feature handles which can be reversed over the top of the motor enabling consumers to change mowing directions without turning around the entire machine. As the position of the handle is changed, the power cord may get caught between the handle and a bracket which mounts the handle to the mower. This could cause sufficient abrasion to expose electrical wires. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should not use these mowers until they have installed a small metal part to eliminate the potential hazard. The part can be obtained free of charge, along with installation instructions, by contacting: Department 91B, Sunbeam Outdoor Company, Division of Sunbeam Corporation, P.O. Box 430, Kingstree Highway East, Manning, South Caroling 29102, telephone 803/435-8444. To verify model numbers, consumers may contact CPSC's toll- free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Toy Telephones Recalled by Durham NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-054 Cords On Toy Telephones Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- Durham Industries, Inc., of New York City is recalling the detachable connector cords sold with approximately 97,000 toy telephone sets, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. The cord connects two battery-operated toy telephones, enabling children to talk to each other. The two-prong plugs at each end of the cord so closely resemble genuine electrical plugs that children may try to force them into household sockets, thereby receiving severe shocks or burns, according to CPSC staff. An 8-year-old girl was burned earlier this year when she was able to force one of the plugs into a wall electrical outlet. The connector cord is sold as part of the model 7028 "Holly Hobbie" dial/intercom toy telephone set. Available in pink and blue, the toy phones are equipped with functional intercoms, signal lights and buzzers. The words "Holly Hobbie" are printed on the center dial of each toy phone. The set has been sold exclusively by the K-Mart Corporation for approximately $9.95. Durham has imported the toy from Yugoslavia since 1977. Parents should return the cords to Durham Industries, Inc., 41 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10010, to receive free replacement cords which have been redesigned.
Commercial Hair Dryers Corrected by Bonat NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 20, 1979 Release # 79-048 Commission Accepts Asbestos Correction Plan From Commercial Hair Dryer Manufacturer WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 20) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the manufacturer of the "Rocket Blower", a commercial hair dryer used nationwide in beauty salons patronized primarily by blacks, today announced a voluntary program for the removal and replacement of asbestos heat shields in the hair dryers. The correction program has been accepted by the Commission as adequate. The manufacturer, Bonat Inc., of West Patterson, New Jersey, estimates that since 1972 approximately 1,000 of the special purpose hair dryers have been sold to distributors for resale to beauty salons. The company estimates that perhaps 500 individual beauty salons currently may be using the "Rocket Blower", predominantly in major urban areas. Bonat and CPSC will be instructing Bonat distributors and their beauty salon customers to return the dryers for retrofitting. Bonat has informed the Commission that it believes these hair dryers do not present a health hazard. Although Bonat therefore feels it is not legally obligated to undertake the correction program, it has agreed to do so voluntarily. Distributors and their beauty salon operators can identify the "Rocket Blower" by its name on the label, which reads "Bonat Blower Dryer." The "Rocket Blower" models requiring removal of the asbestos heat shield are models B-10, B-11 and B-14. No other Bonat dryers have been manufactured with asbestos heat shields. The replacement program is scheduled to begin in mid-October when the company will have completed its retrofitting arrangements. Beauty salon operators are being advised to write the Bonat company at 250 Lackawanna Ave., West Patterson, New Jersey 07424, to receive details of the retrofit program. Salon operators also may contact CPSC at the agency's toll-free Hotline, 800/638-2772, to initiate participation in the program.
Coffee Percolators/Coffeemakers Corrected by Corning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 4, 1979 Release # 79-046 Major Corrective Action Set On Corning Ware Coffee Percolators WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 4) -- Corning Glass Works and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced a voluntary action by the company to remove virtually all Corning Ware coffee percolators from consumer use. Some of these coffeemakers can be dangerous to use because the handle and metal band may separate without warning from the white glass-ceramic pot. Consumers owning Corning Ware percolators are advised to stop using them immediately. If such a separation occurs on a coffeemaker containing hot liquid, the consumer can be burned. As part of its voluntary corrective action, Corning has prepared an incentive program to get consumers to stop using these coffeemakers. The company has purchased advertising space in hundreds of newspapers nationwide telling consumers what to do. The advertisements, scheduled to appear beginning September 10th, will contain coupons through which coffeemaker owners may obtain details from Corning regarding the plan. Consumers also may receive information concerning the program from Corning Glass Works, P.O. BOX 5750, Corning, New York 14830, but are requested to use the coupons which will be appearing in their local newspapers. The Commission has accepted Corning's Corrective action Plan. Corning has manufactured and sold approximately 18.5 million Corning Ware percolators since they were introduced in 1960. Due to normal product attrition, a smaller number is believed to be still in use. In 1976 Corning recalled approximately 400,000 electromatic percolators manufactured in 1974. With respect to its other percolators, since 1972 Corning has received approximately 7,000 separation complaints including reports of approximately 1,250 injuries. Corning said these represent approximately 4 complaints and 0.7 injury complaints per 10,000 percolators sold. Corning said that these rates are low, but it has decided voluntarily to remove the percolators from service rather than risk any further injuries or inconvenience on the part of its customers. The cause of the separation problem has been traced to the epoxy sealant which was intended to fasten the handle/metal band assembly to the white glass-ceramic pot. This sealant can dry out and become brittle, causing the two parts to separate without warning. The separation problem does not extend to Corning's "Pyrex" brand clear glass percolators or to any other Corning coffeemakers, and those products are not included in the program, Corning said. The Commission and Corning request that consumers not return coffeemakers to the company or to retailers. They should be taken out of use immediately and retained until the owner receives instructions on the program from Corning. Corning said consumers should allow at least eight weeks for the company's response.
Television Sets Repaired by Sears NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 30, 1979 Release # 79-044 Repair Program Set For Sears Televisions WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 30) -- Sears, Roebuck and Co. today announced a repair program to correct a potential fire hazard in 21,000 of its 19-inch portable color television sets. The program is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The sets were manufactured with an electrical resistor which may overheat, possibly causing an internal fire which could spread to other combustible materials. The sets were sold from 1973 through 1975. Sears has received consumer reports of five fires in the television sets. No injuries have been reported. The sets were sold nationwide under the "Sears" brand name for approximately $490. They can be identified by one of the following model numbers on the back of the cabinet: 564.41990300, 564.419913000, 564.41991301, 564.41991302 or 564.41991303. No other sets are involved. Consumers should contact their local Sears store or service center to arrange for free repairs. To verify model numbers, consumers also may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline 800/638-2772.
Women's Garments Recalled by Edgewood Chenille NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 27, 1979 Release # 79-043 Flammable Women's Garments Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 27) -- The Edgewood Chenille Company, a clothing manufacturer in Tunnel Hill, Georgia, is recalling thousands of highly flammable women's garments, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced. The garments include women's bathrobes, jackets, shorts and tube-tops. All are made of 100 per cent cotton chenille, a soft, unribbed fabric with a high, fuzzy nap. Since December, 1978, three women have been burned when their bathrobes caught on fire. One of the women was seriously injured with second-and third-degree burns which covered 25 per cent of her body. In CPSC laboratory tests of the garments conducted since June, 1979, 7 of 10 garments failed to pass the federal flammability standard for adult wearing apparel. The garments have been sold nationwide since 1975 under the "Edgewood" and "Wrappers" labels in department stores and ladies' apparel stores. The bathrobes are floor-length and long-sleeved, and wrap in front. They have sold at retail prices ranging from $35 to $60. The jackets are waist-length and long-sleeved. Some are fashioned as "fitted blazers" with notched collars and padded shoulders, and others as pullovers with hoods and elastic waistbands. They have sold for approximately $30 to $35. The boxer-style shorts also have elastic waistbands, and have sold from $12 to $15. The tube-tops are fully elasticized, strapless garments, which have retailed from $10 to $12. Women who own these garments should return them to their retailers to receive free replacement apparel which complies with the flammability standard. Anyone who requires additional information about this recall should contact the Edgewood Chenille Company, P.O. Box 14, Tunnel Hill, Georgia, 30755, telephone (404) 935-3121.
Fluorescent Lights Recalled by American Electric NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 1979 Release # 79-041 Fluorescent Lights Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 24) -- The American Electric Corporation, of Culver City, California, today voluntarily issued a second bulletin recalling more than 20,000 "Brite Bar" fluorescent light fixtures because of a possible electrical fire hazard. This announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The firm had been advised by one of its two power cord suppliers that the power cord could create a risk of fire if damaged, altered or used in a manner contrary to the instructions enclosed with the unit. Since the company's first recall announcement (in April, 1978) about 40,000 of approximately 63,800 lights manufactured with the potentially defective cord have been retrieved, primarily from distributors and dealers. However, the firm and the Commission believe that additional notice will facilitate the recovery of many of those lights still in use. The product under recall is the model 9500 "Brite Bar" slim- line, fluorescent light fixture. It is 25 inches long and includes a six-foot cord which is stamped (in red) at intervals with the warning, "Caution: Do not cut or coil." Model 9500 Fixtures Which Do Not Display This Warning On The Cord Are Equipped With A New Cord Free From The Defect And Are Not Being Recalled. Safety tests conducted by CPSC engineers have revealed a design defect in the power cord, which if coiled or folded during use, may cause the insulation to melt, exposing wires which could create a fire hazard. The Commission has received reports of two instances in which the cord allegedly started fires in consumers' homes. There have been no reported injuries. The lights being recalled were manufactured from September through December, 1977, were marketed in 28 states (list of states attached) and sold at retail for about $10. Consumers should immediately stop using these lights and return them for a free replacement or full refund (including postage costs) to American Electric Corporation, 9937 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, California, 90230; Attention: June Polk, Consumer Relations Manager. Anyone who wants a refund instead of a new light must also include proof-of-purchase indicating the retail price paid for the product. To verify the model number on these fixtures, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772. States Which Marketed "Brite Bar" Lights Alabama Arizona California Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Indiana Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Minnesota Michigan Mississippi Nevada New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania South Dakota Tennessee Texas Washington info@cpsc.gov.
Energy-Saving Devices On Heating Units Recalled by Intermatic NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 16, 1979 Release # 79-040 Energy-Saving Devices Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 16) -- Intermatic, Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of electrical products in Spring Grove, Illinois, is voluntarily recalling the heating units from approximately 53,000 automatic temperature setback controls, the Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced. The units are being called back because of an integral carbon resistor which may overheat and start fires. Approximately 3,000 of the units are believed still to be in consumers' possession despite the firm's attempts to recall the product since October, 1978. The setback controls were sold as a two-piece kit under Intermatic's private label, "Temperature Tender." The kit includes the heating unit and an electric timer, which enable residential heating and cooling systems to operate automatically at pre-set temperatures in order to conserve energy. They were sold at retail prices of approximately $20 to $25 nationwide. Commission staffers have been informed of 14 unit failures causing 11 minor fires in similar thermostat control devices. In conversations with CPSC staff, Intermatic officials have said that they are aware of one fire resulting from failure of their product. No injuries have been reported. Subject to the recall are the models FSl00 and FSl "Temperature Tender" heating units. The units are an off-white color and measure approximately 1% by 3 inches. They were manufactured between September, 1976 and August, 1977, and between November, 1977 and May, 1978. The faulty units bear a manufacturer's date code within the following range: 396 through 526, 017 through 327, 427 through 527, or 018 through 218. A date code of 396, for example, designates manufacture during the 39th week of 1976. The date code and model number are on the back of the unit. In addition, only those units containing a brown-colored carbon resistor (visible through the key-hole slot in the back) are being recalled. Units with a resistor of another color are not subject to the recall, even though they may bear a date code which corresponds to one listed above. Consumers who own one of these heating units should return it to their retailer for a full refund. Anyone who needs assistance in determining whether their unit is being recalled should write to Department PAS, Intermatic Inc., Intermatic Plaza, Spring Grove, Illinois, 60081. To check date codes and model numbers, consumers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Brackets On Cribs Recalled by Questor NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 9, 1979 Release # 79-038 Brackets On Cribs Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 9) -- A voluntary recall of plastic brackets used to support the springs on approximately 34,500 full-sized "Babyline" cribs was announced today by the Questor Juvenile Furniture Company of Los Angeles, California. The announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. In a report to the Commission, the firm cited six instances in which the plastic brackets broke, causing the mattress and springs to drop slightly. Two infants have received minor injuries. The plastic "crib-spring hanger brackets" are mounted on each of the cribs' four corner posts to suspend the springs by means of hooks. The recall affects those brackets used on 29 models of Babyline cribs date-coded in the period from June, 1977 through January, 1978. Only cribs bearing the following date codes are involved: 677, 777, 877, 977, 1077, 1277 and 178. The date code is on a label on the inside bottom of the crib headboard. (A complete list of cribs with the plastic brackets is attached.) Owners of these cribs should write the manufacturer to obtain a free replacement kit containing metal hanger brackets and installation instructions. Letters should be addressed to Baby Line Furniture, 6235 South Saint Andrews Place, Los Angeles, California, 90047, Attention: Corrective Program. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers and assembly dates may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Toy Cork Rifles Recalled by F.J. Strauss NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 9, 1979 Release # 79-037 Toy Cork Rifles Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 9) -- The F. J. Strauss Company, Inc., an importer and distributor with headquarters in New York City, is voluntarily recalling approximately 3,600 toy cork rifles because they may injure children's eyes. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. According to CPSC staff, children run the risk of serious eye injuries if they remove the gun's muzzle and fire toward their faces, an action which could drive two interior metal rods into their eyes. These "pushrods," which serve to expel the cork from the toy I normally are protected from extending to their full 8-inch length by small plastic barriers. However, some barriers may be positioned improperly, allowing the metal rods to project completely when the trigger is pulled. While F. J. Strauss never has received a complaint about the toy, CPSC received a report earlier this year that a 3+year-old boy suffered eye injuries from an identically constructed toy cork gun made by another manufacturer; all of these models have since been recalled. Strauss has told CPSC that other firms also have distributed identical toy guns. The cork guns have been marketed since 1977 in cardboard boxes which are labeled "F. J. Strauss Co., Inc., New York, New York, 10010." The cartons also are labeled with the trademark "Straco," and with "Western Double-Barrel Cork Rifle." They sold for approximately $1.99 at various retail outlets. Consumers should return the guns to the place of purchase for a full refund.
August 2, 1979 Release # 79-036 Glass Doors On Wood Heaters Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 2)-- The Jackes Evans Manufacturing Company in St. Louis, Missouri, is recalling the glass doors on approximately 1,000 wood-burning heaters, the U.S. Consumer product Safety Commission today reported. CPSC reported that the glass can break, permitting live sparks to escape into the living area. No injuries have been reported. The recall applies to the doors on those model WEL "Hearth-Glo" wood-burning circulator heaters which contain 11 x 13-inch glass and door frames with an inner diameter of 10 x 12 1/2 inches. The model letters "WEL" appear on a nameplate on the back of the heater. The heaters were sold primarily by hardware stores nationwide from November, 1977, through October, 1978. The firm is not recalling the doors on similar Hearth-Glo heaters with 9 x 13-inch glass and frames with an inner diameter of 8 1/4 x 12 1/2 inches, since it used a different type of glass which does not pose the fire hazard. Consumer should contact their retailers to arrange for receipt of free replacement doors
Electric Fans Recalled by Vernco NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 12, 1979 Release # 79-033 Electric Fans Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C, (July 12) -- The Vernco Division of the Emerson Electric Company in Columbus, Indiana, today announced it is still trying to contact the owners of some of its portable electric fans which could catch on fire. The firm urges consumers to return the fans for free repairs. This announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. According to the firm, the rotors on some 13- and 19-inch fans may lock, possibly causing the motor to overheat and the plastic components to ignite. CPSC and the company are concerned that consumers using un-repaired fans during the current summer weather are exposing themselves to a potential fire hazard. To date, only a small percentage of the approximately 72,000 fans in question have been returned for modification. Approximately 75 per cent of the fans were sold by Sears, Roebuck 6 Company. These fans are inscribed with the initials "SR" in the center of a plastic fan guard, are light green in color, and stand on a circular plastic base. The 230inch model sold at a retail price of approximately $30 and the 19-inch for about $50. The fans marketed directly by Vernco bear the "Vernco" inscription on the fan guard. They are light blue, are also mounted on circular stands, and were sold at comparable prices through other retailers nationwide. All of the fans were manufactured in 1973 and 1974. The fans posing the potential hazard are stamped on the bottom with a 5-digit date code ending with the number "3" or "4," along with Vernco model number V-1001 or V-1003, or Sears number 758.80530 or 758.80550. Consumer who own one' of the fans should return it as soon as possible to the place of purchase to arrange for free repair. Anyone requiring additional information about the Vernco models being recalled should contact Norman Edwards of Vernco at 812/372-9901. Information about Sears fans can be obtained at any Sears retail store. Consumers wishing to verify the model numbers may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Plastic Ring Caps For Toy Guns Recalled by Acme Specialties NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 29, 1979 Release # 79-031 Plastic Ring Caps For Toy Guns Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 29) -- The Acme Specialties Corporation, an importer of novelty items in River Grove, Illinois, today announced a voluntary recall of thousands of "Three Stars" plastic ring caps which may accidentally explode causing serious burns to the user. This announcement was made in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The ring caps are commonly used in toy guns to produce a loud report when the trigger is pulled. Each cap consists of a plastic disc measuring 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and 8 cap charges which are positioned within small plastic cups around the outer edge of the disc. The charges are made with a small amount of friction-sensitive pyrotechnic material which is formed into l/8-inch pellets. According to CPSC staff and the firm, the charged pellets can accidentally fall out of their protective cups and may explode without warning , possibly resulting in serious burns to the user. In some instances, the caps fired while in children's pockets. Since mid-June this year, at least five children reportedly have received first and second-degree burns when the caps exploded unexpectedly, according to CPSC staffers. One other child reportedly was burned in February, 1979. The ring caps are sold six-to-a-set in Clear plastic packages which are labeled, "Three Stars Plastic Ring Caps" and "Made in Taiwan." They primarily have been marketed in the Midwest by 5-and-10-cent stores, including Walgreens, and various other retailers since 1978. The caps are most frequently sold as a separate item. However, they often appear on display shelves near toy cap guns. Parents are advised to return all such caps immediately to the retailer for a full refund. Consumers should take extra care to avoid skin contact with the caps, and they should not carry the caps in their pockets. Anyone who is unsuccessful getting a refund may contact Lawrence Callan of Acme Specialties Corporation by calling 312/453-7121. They also may call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.