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All product recalls affecting Connecticut.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Connecticut in the distribution area.
Sweatshirts Recalled by Grace NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 15, 1981 Release # 81-015 Recall Of 40,000 Sweatshirts Announced Due To Potential Fire Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 15)-- About 40,000 recreational sweatshirts made in China and distributed nationally by a New York importer are being recalled because they fail to meet federal flammability standards. The recall is being conducted by the importer, Grace International Apparel, Inc., of New York City, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The garments were distributed between June and October, 1980. Each sweatshirt was manufactured with a snapped inner surface, a hood, a zipper and a drawstring; tests showed that the inner surfaces of the sweatshirts are too flammable. A label sewn into each sweatshirt reads "Made in the People's Republic of China CA VA." A second label also is attached to each sweatshirt which reads "CA VA *** A product of G.I.A.I., 350 Fifth Ave." The garments were distributed throughout the United States through 20 direct consignees based in California, Georgia, Florida, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. One of these was a large New York City-based chain of stores, Korvettes, which no longer is in business. Consumers are being advised to return the garments to the store from which they purchased them to obtain full refunds. In the case of sweatshirts purchased from Korvettes, consumers should mail them directly to Grace International Apparel, Inc., Room 7401, Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York, 10001. The company has agreed to refund the purchase price ($5.99) plus any appropriate shipping charges.
Kits For Electrical Test Meters Recalled by Radio Shack NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 2, 1981 Release # 81-007 Shock Hazard Results In Recall Of Radio Shack Kits For Electrical Test Meters WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 2) -- More than 150,000 lead kits for electrical test meters are being recalled by Radio Shack, of Fort Worth, Texas, because they may pose a shock hazard to consumers. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Radio Shack is a division of the Tandy Corporation. Each kit consists of 11 separate pieces, including two probes which are plugged into lead wire tips and used to test electrical current. Each probe is designed in such a way that metal remains exposed even when it is fully inserted into the lead wire tips, thus posing a potential shock hazard to users. One consumer has reported receiving a shock from the product. The kits were manufactured from 1971 through June, 1980, and were sold nationwide in Radio Shack retail stores for $4.99 each. They can be identified by catalog number 270-332 which appears on the package. Consumers should return their kits to the nearest Radio Shack store for a full refund. For information on store locations, consumers should consult their local telephone directories or write to Radio Shack, One Tandy Center, Floor 1800, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102. Consumers wishing to verify the model number should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
LP Gas Water Heater Controls Warning/Correction NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 29, 1981 Release # 81-005 Robertshaw Company Issues New Warning On Explosion Hazard In 1,000 LP Gas Water Heater Controls WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 29, 1981) -- The manufacturer of "Unitrol" fuel control mechanisms used on certain liquid propane gas water heaters is renewing its efforts to publicize and correct a potential defect which may cause severe burn injuries and death resulting from explosion and fires. Since 1954, when the fuel controls first were sold to hot water heater manufacturers, there have been at least 48 deaths and 89 severe burn injuries from explosions of water heaters equipped with these gas controls. The program to replace the old gas controls with new ones is being conducted by the Robertshaw Controls Company of Richmond, Va., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The manufacturer also is reissuing a national alert to warn consumers of the severe risk posed by continued use of water heaters equipped with the controls. The warning covers the "Unitrol" model 110 and model 200 gas controls used to regulate the flow of LP (liquid propane) gas to water heaters. These controls, manufactured about 25 years ago by Robertshaw's Grayson Controls division, of Long Beach, California, contain a potentially defective valve which could cause a gas leak and subsequent explosion and fire. Approximately 1,000 of the potentially defective controls still are believed to be in use nationwide. Many of these controls may be found on water heaters located in rural areas, such as in farm homes, in vacation or weekend homes, or in hunting or fishing camps. (LP gas commonly is used to fuel appliances in rural areas due to the unavailability of natural gas lines.) The potentially defective controls were sold to approximately 110 water heater manufacturers from December, 1954, through February, 1957. The controls include Unitrol models 110 and 200 showing any date code which includes 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 for "Unitrol 200" on the temperature dial on the front of the control. The controls are 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. In 1974, Robertshaw notified CPSC of the potential defect in the gas controls, and subsequently instituted a program to repair the devices. 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 then should contact Robertshaw at its toll-free number 800-421-1130. In California call 800-262-1173. Following a free inspection, the firm will install new controls if appropriate. Anyone wishing to verify the model numbers or the brand name should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Snowmobiles Recalled by Kawasaki NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 26, 1981 Release # 81-003 Recall Program To Correct Snowmobiles Arranged By Commission And Kawasaki Motors WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 26) -- Following reports of serious injuries involving snowmobile drive tracks, a three to four million dollar voluntary repair program to correct approximately 16,500 1978 and 1979 model snowmobiles was announced today by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Kawasaki Motors Corp. (USA) of Santa Ana, California. CPSC staff learned of the problem with the snowmobile tracks in May, 1980, when the company notified CPSC of several incidents involving bar detachment injuries. To date, CPSC staff has been informed by Kawasaki of approximately 20 such injury incidents, including fractures or severe lacerations which in three cases required the amputation of a finger. These incidents occurred when the snowmobile had been lifted or turned on its side and the track was rotating at high speeds. In settlement of its alleged failure to report promptly to CPSC information which the Commission believes indicated that these snowmobile tracks could pose a substantial risk of injury to the public, Kawasaki has agreed to pay $90,000 to CPSC. The snowmobile tracks involved are the MGB (molded grouser bar) type which were designed and manufactured by Kawasaki and by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. The tracks have experienced detachment of the metal bar from the rubber belts of the track. Kawasaki has not used this track on any of its models since 1979. When the bars become partially or completely detached from the rubber belts and when the snowmobile is lifted or turned on its side exposing the rotating track, bars can strike the hands, legs or feet of a person who is lifting the snowmobile or standing next to the rotating track. Kawasaki is notifying by mail all snowmobile owners with registered warranties for the 1978 and 1979 Invader and Intruder models, informing them of the safety hazard and the company's track replacement program. Notice also will be given through Kawasaki dealers nationwide. Kawasaki has agreed to replace, free-of-charge, all MGB tracks on the 1978-79 Intruder and Invader models with its current model track which has no bars. The company estimates that the replacement program will cost between $3 million and $4 million. Owners of these snowmobile models are being urged to contact their local Kawasaki dealer promptly (but no later than June 30, 1981) for information on the track replacement program. Track replacement will be performed by Kawasaki dealers as the replacement tracks become available from the manufacturer. In connection with the $90,000 payment and the voluntary corrective action plan, Kawasaki denies that there was any failure to report information as required by law, and further denies that any substantial risk of injury exists.
LP Gas Water Heaters Repaired by White-Rodgers LP (liquid Propane) gas water heaters which contain a thermostat manufactured by the White-Rodgers division of Emerson Electric Co. of St. Louis, Missouri. The water heaters were sold between 1961 and 1980 predominantly to rural homeowners by the A.O. Smith Corporation of Kankakee, Illinois, and by Sears, Roebuck and Co. of Chicago, Illinois. A.O. Smith manufactured its own water heaters during this period and sold them through plumbing wholesalers and contractors; the Sears water heaters were manufactured by State Industries. In settlement of its alleged failure to report promptly these explosions to the Commission as required by law, White-Rodgers has agreed to pay $420,000. Thermostats produced by White-Rodgers from 1976 through 1980 had different pilot gas control knobs and were installed in LP gas water heaters manufactured by A.O. Smith, Rheem Manufacturing Co., the W.L. Jackson Manufacturing Co., and State Industries. These water heaters were sold by Sears, Montgomery Ward Co., and a variety of plumbing supply outlets. The post-1976 thermostats incorporated into water heaters manufactured by State Industries, A.O. Smith, Rheem Manufacturing Co. and W.L. Jackson Manufacturing Co. do not contain the pilot gas control knobs involved in the explosions described above, and are being replaced solely to meet certain "state of the art" standards met by the current White-Rodgers thermostats. A total of 56 different brand names of water heaters manufactured by the above-listed companies are being covered by the recall program. This recall program is expected to cost the comuanies which signed the agreement with CPSC anywhere from $5 million to $9 million during the next year, although they recognize that this figure does not represent a ceiling on the potential cost of the program. A list of the brand names is attached to this press release. Following negotiations with CPSC staff, White-Rodgers agreed to mail safety alert notices to all the identifiable users of LP gas in the United States -- or an estimated 15 million households. Each notice will describe the White-Rodgers thermostat which is eligible for replacement. If consumers believe that their water heater contains one of the potentially hazardous thermostats, they are instructed to telephone a toll-free hotline at White-Rodgers headquarters (800-325-9589) to arrange for replacement with a new, modified thermostat free-of-charge to consumers. (Residents of Missouri, Alaska or Hawaii should call the company collect at 314-631-9321). Trade Names Of Water Heaters Possibly Having White-Rodgers Thermostats A. O. Smith Co. Sears Rheem MFG. Co. W. L. Jackson MFG. Co. State Industries A. O. Smith American Standard Arcoglas Arcoglas Classic Conservationist Continental Energy Saver 5 Energy Saver 10 Fuel Saver 1 Futura Gas 1 Gas 2 Gas 3 Glascote Kee Minnegasco National Permaglas Signet Economiser Homart Honor Bilt Powermiser Sears (series ranges from 15 up to 600) Right Right 10 Right Miser Right Miser 10 Montgomery Ward (models 33032, 33158, 33166, 33376) Big O Gibson Hermitage Jackson Marathon Metermiser Plum Easy Presto Simonson Tempmaster Tip Top Ambassador Aqua-Lux Censible Coop Courier Economaster Imperial Citation Master Service Mission Modern President Ready-Hot Sentry Superlife Sutherlite Thermo-King
Squeeze Me Bear Toy Animals Recalled by Atlanta Novelty NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 3, 1980 Release # 80-041 "Squeeze Me Bear" Toy Animals Recalled To Eliminate Safety Hazards WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 3) -- A children's stuffed animal sold nationwide as the "Squeeze Me Bear" is being recalled by the importer in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission because the toy may present safety hazards which could injure young children. An estimated 53,000 Squeeze Me Bears have been sold since 1979 at retail Prices averaging from $7 to $8 each. The toy bears were manufactured in Taiwan and distributed to various toy stores and other retail outlets by the Atlanta Novelty Co. of Long Island City, New York. The potentially hazardous toys bear the product code number of either 291 or 298. Testing by CPSC of a random sample of the bears showed that one of the bears contained a potentially hazardous sharp wire in the stuffing, leading CPSC staff to believe that a significant portion of the other Squeeze Me Bears in stores and consumers homes also may contain such wires; a similar recall of another importer's brand of stuffed animals was initiated less than a month ago. The potential danger lies in the possibility that the wire may work its through the bear's fur. So far there have been no injuries reported to CPSC. In addition, during CPSC testing which simulated normal use and abuse of the toy by a young child, some noses of the bears fell off, thus posing a potential choking hazard to young children. Accordingly, these stuffed toys have been determined to be "banned hazardous substances" under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Consumers are being urged to return their Squeeze Me Bears to the retailer where the toy was purchased for a full refund. The distributor will alert each of its customers to the hazards and the procedures to be followed in carrying out the recall. The distributor has ceased making further shipments of this stuffed toy.
Pot Belly Toy Animals Recalled by Daekor NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 31, 1980 Release # 80-039 Millions Of "Pot Belly" Toy Animals Being Recalled To Eliminate Safety Hazards WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 31) -- The highly popular "Pot Belly" line of children's stuffed animals is being recalled by the importer in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission because the toys may present hazards which could injure young children. More than five million of the five different types of "Pot Bellies" have been sold nationwide in a variety of sizes since late in 1978. Pot Bellies are distributed to more than 2,800 toy stores, department stores and other retailers by the Daekor division of Hudson Brands, Ltd., of New York City. CPSC has received a number of consumer complaints of small wires protruding from the toy animals; however, there have been no reports of serious injuries to date. Testing by CPSC revealed that a substantial percentage of the toys tested contained sharp wires in the stuffing. When tested under the terms of a CPSC regulation designed to prevent children under the age of three years from swallowing and choking on small parts of toys, some of the Pot Bellies failed the test. Accordingly, these stuffed toys -- until inspected by the importer to ensure their safety -- have been determined to be "banned hazardous substances" under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Once inspected and found free of wires, the toys may be distributed. CPSC also discovered through testing that the "bean bag" variety of smaller Pot Bellies presents another hazard in addition to the potential presence of small wires. The bottoms of bean bag Pot Bellies are stuffed with crushed walnut shells which could be swallowed by children if the toy animals come apart at the seams (as some did during the CPSC testing). Consumers are being urged to return their Pot Belly stuffed animals to the retailer where the toy was purchased for a full refund or replacement. Pot Bellies have been sold at retail prices ranging from $8 to $30, depending on their size. Refunds only are being offered to consumers who return bean bag Pot Bellies to the retailer. (The importer also has distributed about 5,000 large Pot Belly koala bears and brown bears which are not being subjected to the ban or the recall. These 40-inch-long bears were manufactured by a Brooklyn, N.Y., company which used a different stuffing material.) Hudson Brands will alert each retailer to the hazards and the procedures to be followed in carrying out the recall and inspection program, and also will inspect all further shipments of these toy animals to ensure that there are no wires in the stuffing.
Two "Bristle Block" Components Discarded/Replaced by Playskool NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 3, 1980 Release # 80-038 Company Announces Program Urging That Two "Bristle Block" Components Be Discarded WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 3) -- Playskool, Inc., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that two "Bristle Block" components which may detach in use and abuse testing fail to comply with a regulation designed to prevent children under 3 from swallowing small parts. These parts should be discarded and will be replaced without charge to customers. The company is taking this action although no injuries or complaints have been received relating to these components. Bristle Blocks are colored plastic shapes with flexible bristles that interlock. The products are sold and distributed nationally by leading wholesale and retail establishments. The two components to be replaced are Bristle heads contained in Bristle Block set #808 and Bristle wheels-and-axel assemblies included in Bristle sets #806, 807 and 808. Members of the public who have these Bristle heads and wheel-and-axel assemblies are urged to discard their old components and write to the company by postcard or letter requesting a replacement at the following address: PLAYSKOOL, INC. PO Box 200 Pawtucket, RI 02862-0200 Replacement will be provided free of charge by the company by return mail. Consumers with any questions may call the Customer Service Department at Playskool at (800)-752-9755. A copy of a photograph of the two Bristle Blocks components is attached to this document.
Coffee Makers Recalled by Regal Ware NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 2, 1980 Release # 80-036 Regal Coffee Makers Recalled Due To Shock Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 2, 19801 -- Approximately 6,800 electric coffee makers manufactured by Regal Ware, Inc., of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, are being recalled because they may pose a shock hazard to users. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The 10-cup, stainless-steel percolators were insulated with a thermoplastic material around electrical wiring to the signal light. The insulation may deteriorate and might permit bare wiring to conduct electrical current through the metal parts of the coffee pot. No reports of shock have been received by the company or CPSC. The Regal coffee makers were manufactured from August, 1979, through April, 1980, and were sold nationwide for approximately $35 to $45 by Montgomery Wards, Sears Roebuck and Co., and other retail stores under the model number of K7591. The model number is embossed on the bottom of the pot's black plastic base. JCPenney retail outlets have sold the pots under the "JCPenney" label. These units can be identified by the model number 784-3071 on the bottom of the plastic base. In addition to the model numbers, all units under recall display on the bottom of the base an eight-digit date code within the range 08017911 through 04308011. Those units in the distribution chain which have been repaired carry a date code which is underlined and displayed at the bottom of the plastic base. In addition, repaired units have the letter "R" stamped on the flap of the package. Consumers may have their pots repaired free-of-charge by mailing them to the nearest Regal Service Center. Postage costs will be reimbursed. To determine the location of the nearest Regal Service Center, consumers should write to Regal Ware, Inc., c/o Customer Service Department, 1675 Riegle Drive, Kewaskum, Wisconsin, 53040, or consult the list enclosed with each new coffee maker. Consumers also may contact the store from which the coffee pot was purchased to be advised of the store's individual recall program. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers and date codes should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Storage Of Black & Decker Lawn Mowers Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 2, 1980 Release # 80-037 Consumers Warned To Take Safety Steps In Storage Of Black & Decker Lawn Mowers WASHINGTON, D.C. ( October 2, 1980 ) -- Owners of more than 18,000 cordless battery-powered lawn mowers are being warned that a possible defect in the mower's battery may pose a fire hazard while the mower sits unused in a garage or storage area. The warning is being issued jointly by the manufacturer, Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc. of Towson, Maryland, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The company has received eight separate complaints from consumers reporting that the battery on their lawn mower caught on fire while in storage. Black & Decker currently is conducting tests on their model 8055 cordless battery-powered mowers to determine the exact cause of the fires. There have been no reports of injuries or deaths related to the fires. In addition, neither CPSC nor the company has received reports of battery fires occurring while the lawn mowers were being used by consumers. The Black & Decker lawn mowers are orange and white in color and have two blades which produce a 19-inch cut. They were manufactured in 1976 and sold nationwide in hardware stores and other retail outlets between January, 1976 and August, 1980. The model number 8055 is embossed with the words "19-inch Cordless Twin Motor" on the top of the plastic housing next to the battery. While the company is conducting tests and developing a program to repair the lawn mowers, consumers are being urged to remove the fuses from the battery before placing the mower in storage. Consumers also are being advised to store the mower at a safe distance from flammable materials. To obtain instructions on how to remove the battery fuses, other safety precautions, and to arrange for future corrections by Black & Decker Service Centers, consumers should call Black & Decker's toll-free number at 800-638-3830. Maryland residents should Call Black & Decker collect at 301-820-2406.
Hair Dryers Recalled by Four Companies NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 8, 1980 Release # 80-033 More Than 87,000 Additional Hair Dryers Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 8) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced that more than 87,000 additional hair dryers are being recalled because they were manufactured with asbestos. The majority of the dryers are professional hand-held models sold for use in barber shops and hair salons. The recalls are being conducted voluntarily by four companies, including the K-Mart Corporation, of Troy, Michigan: Rolf Brauchli, Inc., of Skokie, Illinois: Nino Originals, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Select Beauty Brands, Inc., of Carle Place, New York. K-Mart is recalling approximately 15,000 model 890 hand- held dryers supplied by Brother International, of Piscataway, New Jersey, and sold to consumers under the K-Mart label since 1972. Consumers whose dryers are in working condition can exchange them for a depreciated cash refund of $1.79, or a new Westminister brand AM/FM "Weather Band" radio (model TV1 or TV2). Dryers should be mailed by no later than February 15, 1981, to Service Center, Hiroaka New York, Inc., Room A22, 111 8th Avenue, New York, New York, 10011. Postage costs will be reimbursed. The firm will replace each asbestos liner with a liner made from mica at no cost to consumers, who should return the dryer to the barber shop or beauty salon where purchased, or to Rolf Brauchli, Inc., 8044 N. Lawndale, Skokie, Illinois, 60076. Professionals should mail the dryers for repairs directly to the firm at the address listed above. Both professionals and consumers will be reimbursed for postage and insurance costs. The Nino Originals recall includes thousands of its "World Champion" 1300 watt and its "Nino 1000" brand 1300 watt hand-held dryers. Consumers should return the dryers to the place of purchase for free repairs to remove the asbestos liner. Professionals should mail the dryers for repairs to Nino Originals, 6632 Penn Avenue S., Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55423. Select Beauty Brands, Inc., also is recalling thousands of hand-held hair dryers, including the Royal model 550 and Royal model 1008. Professional hair stylists and consumers should mail the dryers to Select Beauty Brands, Inc., 333 Westbury Avenue, Carle Place, New York, 11514. The firm will replace the asbestos heat shield with a mica shield at no cost and will reimburse postage costs. Anyone needing to verify brand names and model numbers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Stereo Turntables Recalled by Philips NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 25, 1980 Release # 80-031 Philips Stereo Turntables Recalled Due To Potential Shock Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 25) -- Approximately 5,600 stereo turntables are being recalled by their manufacturer, Philips High Fidelity Laboratories, Ltd., of Knoxville, Tennessee, because they may pose a shock hazard to consumers. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Philips is a subsidiary of Magnavox Consumer Electronics Co., of Knoxville, Tennessee. The turntables were wired improperly so that "safety fuses," which serve as circuit breakers, do not operate. In the event of a short circuit, consumers could receive a severe electrical shock by touching any metal part on the turntable or any metal components connected to the turntable. NO injuries or deaths have been reported to the company or to CPSC. The recall includes Philips turntable models 22AF685/44B and 22AF685/94B. The turntables have been sold nationwide since March, 1979, for approximately $140 in stereo-equipment retail outlets. The model numbers are printed on a label affixed to the bottom of the turntable base. Owners should contact the dealer from whom the unit was purchased or the Philips Consumers Affairs Department to make arrangements for free repairs. The company's toll- free number is 800-251-9104; in Tennessee, call 615-521-4460, and ask for Consumer Affairs. Anyone wishing to verify the model numbers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Toy Mobiles Recalled by Albert E. Price NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 21, 1980 Release # 80-030 Stuffed Toy Mobiles Recalled Because Of Strangulation Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 21, 1980) -- Approximately 2,300 stuffed mobile toys which may pose a strangulation hazard to infants are being recalled by their importer, Albert E. Price, Inc., of Bellmawr, New Jersey. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall applies to two types of stuffed animal mobiles which are intended to be suspended from ceilings or cribs by a metal spring and two white string cords. Although no deaths or injuries have been associated with these toys, a similar toy imported by another firm was involved last year in the strangulation of an 11-month-old baby girl when she became entangled in the elastic cords suspending it from her crib. Those toys have since been recalled. The Albert Price toys being recalled include a duck, model 9160, and an elephant, model 9161. Both toys are covered with plush fabric. The importer's name is printed on a tag attached to each animal., and the model numbers appear on the boxes in which the toys are sold. Parents immediately should cut off the cords and the spring. To receive a full refund, consumers should return the toy to place of purchase. To verify the model numbers, contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Crib Decorations Recalled by Rainbow Artisans NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 7, 1980 Release # 80-029 Hazardous Crib Decorations Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 7, 1980) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced that approximately 8,000 elastic crib decorations known as "Kickers" are being recalled voluntarily by their manufacturer. CPSC staff believes that the decorations may pose a strangulation hazard to infants. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with CPSC to prevent any potential strangulation, although no injuries have been reported to the Commission or the manufacturer. Each "Kicker" crib decoration, manufactured by Rainbow Artisans, Inc., of Livingston, New Jersey, consists of four or five soft-sculptured fabric designs strung on a white elastic cord. A plastic ring is attached to each end of the elastic cord so that the decoration may be stretched across a crib or baby carriage and tied to the sides with ribbons. The crib decorations are manufactured in such a way that, if kicked or handled by an infant, the fabric designs may slide from one side of the elastic cord to the other. Such actions may expose enough elastic cord to present a potential strangulation hazard if parents place the product too close to the infant, according to CPSC staff. The "Kickers" being recalled were manufactured from January, 1977, through January, 1980, and were sold nationwide for approximately $12 in retail and specialty stores. Consumers who own this product may obtain a free repair kit by cutting the elastic cord, removing the fabric designs and mailing only the cord and plastic rings to: Rainbow Artisans, Inc., 19 Troy Drive, Livingston, New Jersey 07039. The kit includes a new cotton cord, ribbon and instructions for restringing the designs.
Miter Saws Recalled by Sears NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 1980 Release # 80-027 55,000 Sears Miter Saws To Be Recalled Because Of Blade Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21, 1980) -- A program to repair approximately 55,000 "Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws" which may pose a laceration hazard to consumers is being conducted by Sears, Roebuck & Company. Sears is conducting the program voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The saws can accommodate several types of blades, including a carbide-tipped blade often used to cut soft metals. Because a carbide-tipped blade is thicker than the original blade provided with the saw, consumers may improperly fasten the carbide blade to the motor shaft, creating the possibility that the saw blade may spin off the saw while in use. CPSC has been informed of three instances in 1980 in which carbide-tipped blades being used on the saws disengaged while still spinning. One incident resulted in severe facial lacerations to the consumer. No injuries were reported in the other two cases. The repair program applies to the model 315.23730 and the 315.23731 "Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws." The model numbers can be found on a plate on the saw motor. The saws have been sold by Sears nationwide from July 1978, through June, 1980, for approximately $200. Consumers immediately should stop using carbide-tipped blades with these saws. To obtain a free repair kit, complete with installation instructions, consumers should contact their local Sears retail store or call toll-free 800-845-4781. Anyone wishing to verify the brand name or the model numbers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Spear Guns Recalled by AMF Voit NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 1980 Release # 80-026 Commission Urges Consumers To Participate In Recall Of Potentially Defective Spear Guns WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21, 1980) -- Following a very low rate of consumer return of potentially hazardous aquatic spear guns the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and AMF Voit, Inc., are repeating public warning of the hazard and urging consumers to participate in a free repair program. Only one per cent (986) of the estimated 97,300 potentially hazardous spear guns have been returned to the manufacturer for free repairs since the recall was announced more than a year ago. These spear guns may contain defective triggers and as a result may fire accidentally even though their safety catches are engaged. Although AMF Voit has received 13 consumer complaints about this malfunction, neither CPSC nor the company has received any reports of deaths or serious injuries. The "carbine" spear guns being recalled were sold nationwide in specialty stores from 1967 to 1979 under the AMF Voit, Inc. label. The company's name can be found on the left side of the grip of the two models being recalled. One of the recalled models may be identified by a 17-inch aluminum barrel while the other features a 26-inch aluminum barrel. Both models have black plastic handles. (Sketches of these two models are attached.) Spear guns models G-6 and G-7, manufactured since May, 1979, are not being recalled and are easily identified if a serial number is affixed to the handle or barrel. Any gun which is equipped with a serial number is not involved in the recall. Sears, Roebuck and Company also marketed 1,400 of the spear guns under its private label between 1970 and 1973. These models may be identified by a 17-inch aluminum barrel and the model number 436.573140 displayed along with the Sears name on the left side of an orange-colored plastic hand grip. Consumers who own the AMF or Sears models should disassemble the unloaded spear gun handle assembly (which includes the grip and the trigger) from the gun barrel by removing the screw holding the two parts together. To obtain free replacement parts, the gun handle and the shaft of the spear should be mailed to the nearest AMF Voit outlet listed below. All postage costs will be reimbursed fully; parts should be mailed by insured fourth-class parcel post, with a return receipt requested. Consumers should NOT return the gun barrel, the spear point or the shock lines. AMF Voit centers accepting parts for replacement are: AMF VOIT, INC. 3801 S. Harbor Blvd. Santa Ana, CA 92704 714/546-4220 AMF VOIT, INC 29 Essex Street Maywood, NJ 07607 201/343-2450 AMF VOIT, INC. 2601 Lively Blvd. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 312/595-7370 AMF VOIT, INC. 71 Dawson Road Guelph, Ontario, Canada 519/822-1576 Although Sears has received no consumer complaints, Sears stores nationwide will accept returns of the Sears' labeled model for modification by AMF Voit.
Gym Sets Recalled by Creative Playthings NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Replacement ladder is no longer available. The Creative Playthings company that conducted the recall no longer exists. Please discard or destroy ladder. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued May 23, 1980; Last revised February 21, 2003 Release # 80-020 Creative Playthings Agrees To Recall 400,000 Potentially Hazardous Gym Sets WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 23) -- Approximately 400,000 "Indoor Gym Houses" are being recalled by their manufacturer, Creative Playthings, because they may pose a strangulation hazard to young children. Creative Playthings is a division of CBS, Inc., of New York, N.Y. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The gym houses consist of a hollow, masonite-and-wood box 30 inches in height which supports a two-step wooden ladder on one side and a short slide on the opposite side. The top of the box or "platform" serves as a bridge between the ladder and the slide and is protected on two sides by wooden railings. The product is intended for use by children ages 18 months through 3 years old, according to the manufacturer. It was designed to include a space between the upper rung of the ladder and the platform, which is small enough to enable children to trap their heads and potentially strangle or asphyxiate. CPSC staff has been informed of two incidents since October, 1979, in which young children entrapped their heads in the space as they sat facing the platform on the bottom rung of the ladder. One incident resulted in the strangulation of an 18-month-old baby girl. The other caused a 16-month-old boy to asphyxiate, resulting in irreversible brain damage. The gym houses being recalled were manufactured from 1962 through 1979 and were sold nationwide in toy stores and other retail outlets for approximately $29 to $50. Models manufactured before 1977 were constructed with a 6-inch space between the ladder's top rung and the platform, and models made after 1977 included a 5-inch space. The firm had redesigned all gym houses manufactured since January, 1980 with an expanded 7.5-inch distance between the platform and the upper rung of the ladder, greatly reducing the likelihood of head entrapment. The Creative Playthings company that conducted the recall no longer exists. The replacement ladder is no longer available. Consumers should discard or destroy the ladder if they still have this product.
Crib Exercisers Recalled by Play Spaces NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 1980 Release # 80-018 Hazardous Crib Exercisers Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 14) -- Approximately 600 infant toys known as "crib exercisers" or "baby chains" are being recalled because they may pose a strangulation hazard to infants. The recall is being conducted voluntarily by the toy's importer, Play Spaces International, of Waltham, Massachusetts, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The toy consists of an elastic cord strung with 11 colored wooden rings and balls and is intended to be suspended over the infant after being strung across from one crib railing to the other. CPSC staff believes, however, that parents mistakenly might position the toy close enough to enable the infant to become entangled in the elastic and thereby strangle. Parents also might place the toy in the crib with their child, according to CPSC staff. No injuries or deaths involving this toy have been reported to the firm or to CPSC. The exercisers have been sold in retail stores nationwide for approximately $7.50 each. The toys are sold in plastic packages which are labeled "Schowanek" and "Made in West Germany." The package may be stamped with model number 10890. Consumers should return the toys to the place of purchase for a full cash refund.
Chemical Sprayers Recalled by D.B. Smith NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 1980 Release # 80-017 Thousands Of Chemical Sprayers Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 8, 1980) -- More than 40,000 air-compression home-and garden sprayers used to disperse pesticides and other chemicals are being recalled by their manufacturer because the product may explode or rupture during use. The recall is being conducted voluntarily by D.B. Smith and Company, Inc., of Utica, N.Y., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The sprayers are made of galvanized steel with a tank capacity ranging from 1.5 to 4.0 gallons. They are equipped with a hand-operated pump top to pressurize the tank and a metal spray nozzle attached to a rubber hose. The firm has conveyed to CPSC 49 consumer complaints involving the sprayers, including reports of 43 injuries to consumers since April, 1978. The injuries reported include severe facial and dental injuries and broken arms and hands which were suffered when the sprayer bottom blew out, propelling the sprayer and its contents upward with explosive force. The hazard was created by an improperly located weld on some sprayers which weakens the bottom, causing a rupture or explosion when the sprayer is pressurized. The potentially defective sprayers were manufactured from June, 1977 to June, 1978, and have been sold nationwide in hardware stores and other retail outlets for approximately $15 to $30. The manufacturer has instituted improved quality control measures to eliminate the problem in sprayers manufactured after June, 1978. The recalled sprayers have been sold under a variety of brand names and model numbers. These include: "SMITH" sprayer models 19GP, 21GP, 25GP, 28GP, 40GP, 38GQ and 56GQ. "SERVISTAR" brand sprayer models 15049 and 15055. "PARCO" sprayer models F-4, F-7, F-10, F-12, MC-38 and MC-56. "STATE CHEMICAL" sprayer model 12-A. "METRA CHEM" 3-1/4 gallon sprayer (no model number). The sprayers must display one of the following date codes, in addition to a brand name and model number listed above, to be subject to the recall: B, BA, BC, S11, S12, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 or R6. The date codes are visibly etched into the side of the sprayer below the directions, "Fill to this line," and all model numbers can be found on the paper label affixed to the product. Other models made from stainless steel and polyethylene plastic are not being recalled. Consumers who own one of the sprayers being recalled should not use it. Consumers should empty the contents: remove the strap, pump, and hose-and-nozzle assembly; and mail the metal canister for immediate free replacement to Marimar Manufacturing Company, Inc., P.O. Box 359, Chadwicks, New York,13319, or return it to the place of purchase for handling. Consumers will be reimbursed for postage costs. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers and date codes should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Hair Dryers Repaired by Andis & National Presto NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 1980 Release # 80-016 Additional Hair Dryers Made With Asbestos To Be Repaired By Their Two Manufacturers WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 22, 1980) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced the recall of more than one-half million hair dryers and styling combs which were manufactured with asbestos. The recall includes professional hand-held hair dryers sold for use in barber shops and hair salons. The recalls are being conducted voluntarily by the Andis Company, of Racine, Wisconsin, and by National Presto Industries, Inc., of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Under voluntary corrective programs approved by the Commission, the two firms have agreed to replace the asbestos linings in the dryers and stylers with non-asbestos materials. The Andis Company is recalling tens of thousands of hand-held dryers sold to professional barbers and beauticians since 1973. Some salons may have resold the dryers directly to consumers, CPSC staff reports. The recall applies to the following Andis hair dryer styles and models: Electra Dryer, model ED, Electra Dryer 11, model ED2; Ultra 1200, model U-12; Elite 1500, model 480-EL; and Elite 1250, model E-12. Professional hair stylists should return these dryers to the supply distributor where purchased for free repairs. Consumers who own one of the dryers can obtain the location of the nearest repair center by contacting Andis at its toll-free number l-800-558-9441. Hundreds of thousands of bonnet and hood-type hair dryers and styling combs are being recalled by National Presto Industries. These hair products were sold to consumers as early as 1965 through a variety of independent retail stores nationwide. The following Presto brand dryers and stylers are eligible for free repairs: Elastic Bonnet, models LP04 and PPlOA; Professional Hood, model PP18A; Mist Hood, models PP19A and PP19B; Styling Comb, model PP24A; and Mist Styling Comb, model PP25A. Consumers should mail the dryers and stylers for free repairs to National Presto Industries, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, 54701.