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All product recalls affecting Maine.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Maine in the distribution area.
May 16, 1991 Release # 91-067 Children's Laundry Hampers May Present Severe Laceration Hazard Washington, DC -- The "Dirty Dunk" and "Dirty Dunk, Jr." children's laundry hampers manufactured by Charlico, Inc., of Dallas, TX, may present a severe laceration hazard. Both of these products consist of a laundry basket attached to a backboard in the form of a basketball hoop and basket. The Dirty Dunk is mounted to an interior door with S-shaped hooks and a mounting bracket. The Dirty Dunk, Jr. is hung on an interior door with S-shaped hooks and plastic chain. The S-shaped hooks of either product could bend when partially loaded with clothes, and permit the unit to fall from the door and hit the user, typically a child. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) learned of the problem with the laundry hampers from a consumer complaint. The CPSC is aware of three incidents resulting from Dirty Dunks separating and falling from the S-shaped hooks. A five year-old boy suffered a fractured finger and a laceration requiring seven stitches. A three year-old boy suffered a partial amputation of a finger. An adult was struck on the back of the head while removing clothes from the hamper. Approximately 120,000 Dirty Dunks with defective S-shaped (white-colored) hooks were sold between June 1988 and March 1989. Approximately 20,000 Dirty Dunk, Jrs. with defective S-shaped (white-colored) hooks were sold between June 1989 and December 1989. Charlico discontinued the use of the white-colored hooks in March 1989, and thereafter, used stronger, orange-colored hooks. Because Charlico, Inc. has recently gone out of business, it is not recalling or repairing the product. Any consumer who has a Dirty Dunk or a Dirty Dunk, Jr. with white-colored S-shaped hooks should immediately stop using the product and (1) either destroy and discard the unit, or (2) replace the white S-shaped hooks with substantially stronger S-shaped hooks. This kind of product is generally available at hardware stores. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for product safety, and is issuing this warning as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. Some 15,000 kinds of products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 29 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
May 14, 1991 Release # 91-065 Safety Recall Announced For Exer-Climber, Promo-Stepper WASHINGTON, DC -- Dynamic Classics, Ltd. of Saddlebrook, NJ, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), announced a free retrofit program for its spring exerciser called either the "Exer-Climber" or the "Promo- Stepper." The springs of some 35,000 exercisers sold nationwide from April 1989 through December 1990 may break during use and result in serious foot injuries. The firm has notified CPSC of 82 such injuries. The injuries occurred when the spring broke and part of the spring struck the user's foot, resulting in bruises, lacerations and fractures. The exercisers are a stair-climber type device consisting of two springs, each attached to a black foot pedal and mounted to a metal A-frame. Black or white metal tubular sections and a foam-padded handle are additional parts provided for consumers to assemble the A-frame exercisers. The unassembled products were sold in stores nationwide. The retail price was approximately $45.00. Dynamic Classics is alerting consumers to correct their exercisers with a free retrofit kit being offered by the firm. The kit provides springs with metal brackets on each end to prevent over-stressing and breaking of the end loops of the springs. Exer-Climbers and Promo-Steppers with the metal brackets attached to both ends of the springs do not require the corrective kit. Consumers should immediately discontinue using Exer- Climbers and Promo-Steppers without metal brackets attached to the ends of the springs. The products should not be used until the springs are replaced with the retrofit kit. Consumers should call Dynamic Classics, Ltd. toll-free at 1-800-284-8492 to receive a free retrofit kit. Consumers may also write to: Dynamic Classics, Ltd., 95 Mayhill Street, Saddlebrook, NJ 07662. Consumers who have an exerciser without metal brackets attached to the ends of the springs, and who do not wish to use or repair it should destroy the exerciser so that no one else may use it and risk injury. The exercisers manufactured after June 1990 have been corrected to prevent breakage. The CPSC was established in 1972 as the Federal agency responsible for product safety. The CPSC is commissioned to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. Some 15,000 different kinds 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
May 8, 1991 Release # 91-064 Model St-81 Exercise Bikes From Merchant's Corporation Of America Pose Finger Amputation Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned consumers today of the danger of finger amputation associated with 68,383 units of the Merchant's Corporation of America (MCA) model ST-81 exercise cycles without chain guards. Sold nationwide between 1981 and 1987 for up to $150 each, the exercise cycles have been involved in at least six finger crushing injuries and amputations to small children caused by contact with wheels, gears and pedal sprockets. Consumers with MCA Model ST-81 exercise cycles, and especially those consumers with small children are urged either to have a chain guard installed that will prevent fingers from contacting moving parts or to discard the product. Also, parents are reminded to keep small children away from exercise bicycles while in use or while unattended. Merchant's Corporation of America has been out of business since the end of 1987, and therefore, is unable to assist with corrective action. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. It is issuing this warning as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. Some 15,000 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
May 3, 1991Release # 91-062 Firm's Recall Hotline: (949) 465-6140 WASHINGTON, DC -- Mitsubishi Electronics America, Inc. (MELA) of Cypress CA, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today announced a voluntary recall of its SS-2100 and SS-3100 stereo speakers because of a possible fire hazard. Between June 1988 and January 1991, approximately 27,000 pairs of these speakers were sold nationwide through authorized MELA dealers. These speakers were sold separately and as components of E-1100, E-2100 and E-3100 models of Mitsubishi brand audio systems. MELA has determined that these speakers may be unable to handle the peak power supplied by amplifiers sold with the component system or from amplifiers connected after purchase. In certain cases, when the amplifier is operated at near-maximum volume levels for approximately four to five hours, internal parts of the speaker may overheat and burn. The firm reported five such incidents to CPSC. Although MELA has received no reports of external fires, that possibility may exist. Speaker model numbers can be found on the rear label of the speakers. Consumers who purchased SS-2100 and SS-3100 speakers individually or as part of the Mitsubishi brand audio system models E-1100, E-2100 and E-3100 should stop using them immediately. No other component of the systems mentioned or additional MELA products of any kind are affected by this recall. Consumers should contact the firm at 949-465-6140 for other remedies. The repair is longer available. The recall is being announced as part of CPSC's mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for product safety. Some 15,000 types of consumer products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction
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 24, 1991 Release # 91-060 Stop Using "Bark Buster" Auger Type Log Splitters Safety Commission Warns Consumers WASHINGTON, DC---Government safety experts are warning consumers to stop using "Bark Buster" brand auger-type log splitters manufactured from 1977 through 1988 because of the risk of serious injury or death due to entrapment of hands, arms and legs. These log splitters were sold nationwide for use in splitting firewood. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said there have been at least four serious injuries and one death to users of these log splitters. The injuries involved the loss of arms, legs or fingers. The CPSC originally learned of this unsafe product from a consumer complaint. These log splitters were manufactured by F. W. and Associates, Inc., Diversified Industries, Inc., Bark Buster, Inc., Isanti Engineering, Inc. and sold under the "Bark Buster" brand. They were also manufactured in gasoline engine powered, tractor engine powered and motor vehicle rear wheel powered models. The CPSC believes this serious hazard exists because these log splitters lack the following features: There is no operator accessible off/on switch. There is no "dead-man" feature provided to assure the auger stops if the operator loses control of the operations. No guard is present on the auger to prevent operator entrapment. Owners of these log splitters are urged to take measures which will make the units unuseable by unbolting, removing and discarding the auger tip assembly. These devices are no longer being made by the most recent manufacturer, Isanti Engineering, Inc., Isanti, MN. The CPSC estimates about 8,000 units were manufactured. 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 product safety. Some 15,000 types of products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these 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
April 9, 1991 Release # 91-057 Check Your Woods Wire Plug-In Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter WASHINGTON, DC - Woods Wire Products, Inc. of Carmel, IN, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is urging consumers to check their Woods Wire Model #1651, plug-in ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) before each use to assure that they are working properly. The Woods Wire GFCI model #1651 was sold nationwide. GFCIs are devices that provide a degree of protection against electric shocks. They can be permanently installed as part of an electric circuit in a house, or consumers can purchase portable GFCIs that plug into an electric socket. Although no device can provide complete protection against the hazard of electric shock, a GFCI can provide a degree of protection by shutting off the electricity in a circuit if it detects a current leakage. Both the CPSC and Woods Wire Products urge consumers to purchase and use GFCIs. Woods Wire Products is aware of two instances in which Model #1651, Plug-In Woods Wire Guardian brand GFCI, custom manufactured and labeled by Goldstar Electric Machinery Co., Ltd., failed to operate. There were no injuries. While failure to operate does not in and of itself present a hazard, the consumer does not have the electric shock protection provided by a functioning GFCI if there is a leakage of electrical current in the circuit. Consumers are urged to check their GFCI by pressing the test button before each use. If the GFCI fails to operate as intended when the test button is depressed, consumers should immediately discontinue using the GFCI and replace it. The instructions for testing the GFCI are permanently affixed on the face of the product. It is the policy of Woods Wire Products, Inc., to replace non- functioning GFCIs. For further information, consumers can contact Woods Wire Products at 1-800-447-4364 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (Monday through Friday). 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 product safety. Some 15,000 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
April 2, 1991 Release # 91-053 Orthodontic Pacifiers Recalled WASHINGTON, DC -- Tiny Treasures of Memphis, TN is voluntarily recalling the Orthodontic Pacifier, Model G-15, marketed with four of their baby products because it may break during use causing the nipple and/or handle to separate and become a fatal choking hazard to young children. This recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The pacifier is made of all white plastic with the required two holes and the word "TIDY" embossed on the outside of the shield and was included with the following four baby products: - Paci-Finder #2018 (sold 1,274 at $5.00 each) - Infant Basket #2019 (sold 413 at $16.00 each) - Duck Layette Basket #2101 (sold 26 at $24.00 each) - Bow Layette Basket #2201 (sold 26 at $24.00 each) Retailers were notified by the firm in October 1990 to stop sale of these pacifiers. Consumers are urged to take these pacifiers away from young children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a replacement pacifier or a refund. Consumers with questions about this recall may contact Tiny Treasures at 901-367-4804 or write Tiny Treasures at 3674 Cherry Road, Memphis, TN 38118. These potentially hazardous pacifiers were discovered by CPSC during routine surveillance in the marketplace. These baby products were sold in retail and discount stores nationwide from April to June 1990. 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 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
April 2, 1991 Release # 91-045 Faratak, Inc. Recalls Musical Dolls Due To Potential Choking Hazards WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Faratak, Inc., Alhambra, CA is voluntarily recalling approximately 48,000 "Musical Dolls with Rotating Head" model numbers 501A, B, C, 502A, B, C, 503A, B, C, 504A, B, C, 505A, B, C and 506A, B, C because of small parts that pose a potential choking hazard for children under three years of age. The potentially hazardous dolls were identified by CPSC during an inspection of Faratak, Inc. When CPSC tested the dolls in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, the plastic button eyes separated from the dolls' heads creating small parts that pose a potential choking hazard for children under three years of age. The cloth wind-up musical dolls are in a sitting position measuring approximately seven inches tall. They are clothed in an array of colorful print dresses with brown, yellow, or white yarn hair. Their heads rotate when the wind-up key to the music box is activated to play "It's A Small World." The label located underneath the doll's dress reads in part "Faratak, Inc., Alhambra, CA, Made in China." All dolls, made under the model numbers listed above, with plastic button eyes are subject to recall. The different model numbers reflect differences in dress pattern, hair style and color although the head construction of all models is identical. The dolls, manufactured by Faratak, Inc., were sold nationwide to retail gift and specialty stores, including flower and hospital gift shops, from January 1989 to September 1990 and retail for about $20.00 each. Neither the CPSC nor Faratak, Inc. 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 the toy away from children under three years of age immediately and return it to the store where purchased for a replacement or mail the product to Faratak, Inc. for a full refund of the purchase price and shipping costs. For more information about this recall, consumers may call 1-818-281-2424 or write Faratak, Inc. at 2620 Concord Ave., #102, Alhambra, CA 91830. 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 product safety. Some 15,000 different 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
March 28, 1991 Release # 91-051 Direct Connection, Inc. Recalls Musical Dolls Due To Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Direct Connection, Inc., City of Industry, CA is voluntarily recalling approximately 500 "Musical Dolls" model numbers DC-541, DC-542, DC-543, DC-544, DC-545, DC-546, DC-547, DC-548, DC-549, DC-550, DC-551 and DC-552. When CPSC tested the dolls in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, the plastic button eyes separated from the dolls' heads. These eyes are small parts that pose a potential choking hazard for young children. The cloth wind-up musical dolls stand 12 inches tall; are clothed in an array of colorful print dresses; have bendable arms and legs (the legs may be adjusted for the doll to sit); colorful yarn hair with bow to match dresses, and panties, socks, and booties; and have a rotating head movement when the wind-up key to the music box is activated to play "It's a Small World." The label located underneath the dress reads in part "Direct Connections, Inc., S. El Monte, CA, Made in Philippines." Only dolls with the plastic button eyes are subject to recall. Dolls of the same style and model numbers, but with printed eyes are not being recalled. The dolls, imported by Direct Connection, Inc., were sold nationwide through retail stores and gift shops from April 1990 to August 1990 for $25.00 each. Consumers are urged to take the toy away from young children immediately and return it to the store where purchased for a refund or they may mail the product to Direct Connection, Inc., 15364 E. Valley Blvd., City of Industry, CA 91746, for a full refund of the purchase price and shipping costs. For more information about this recall, consumers in California may call Direct Connection at 1-818-855-2888. A toll free number, 1-800- 582-6565, is provided for consumers outside of California. Neither Direct Connection nor the CPSC is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The potentially hazardous toys were identified by CPSC during an inspection of Direct Connection, Inc. 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 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
March 28, 1991 Release # 91-052 Bee International Recalls Ma And Baby Bunny Due To Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Bee International, City of Commerce, CA is voluntarily recalling approximately 5,000 "Ma and Baby Bunny" toys because the plastic eyes may separate from the Baby Bunny creating small parts that pose a potential choking hazard for young children. "Ma and Baby Bunny" are plush rabbit-shaped toys. The "Ma Bunny" stands approximately 12-1/2 inches tall and is either bright pink and white or yellow and white in color. The "Baby Bunny" is approximately six inches tall and is held in the arms of Ma Bunny. The toy was purchased as part of an Easter basket, model number BK101. The Easter baskets also included a variety of candy and novelty items and were sold nationwide by retail gift and specialty stores during the 1988 and 1989 Easter seasons. The "Ma and Baby Bunny" toy was not included with Easter baskets sold during the 1990 Easter season and will not be included in Easter baskets sold during the 1991 Easter season. A label located at the bottom of Ma Bunny reads in part, "Bee International, Commerce, CA 90040, Made in China." Neither the CPSC nor Bee International is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. Consumers who purchased the Easter baskets, model number BK101, may keep Ma Bunny, however, consumers are urged to take Baby Bunny away from young children immediately and return the toy directly to Bee International, 6817 Acco Street, Commerce, CA 90040, Attention: Greg Hall, for a $1.00 refund of the price Baby Bunny would have sold for if purchased separately from Ma Bunny plus shipping costs. For more information about this recall, consumers may call Bee International at 1-213-728-0717. The potentially hazardous toys were discovered during a CPSC inspection of the firm. 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 kinds 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
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 27, 1991 Release # 91-049 U.S. Toy Company, Inc. Recalls Four Toys Because Of A Potential Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Toy Co., Inc. of Grandview, MO is voluntarily recalling four toys because small components separate from the toys and are a choking or aspiration hazard to young children. The recall of the following four toys is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These toys were originally sold throughout the country from 1988 through July 1990. Hippo Counter (#RO-1005) Imported from Taiwan, consists of a two-tone plastic body with pasted-on eyes. There are four metal wires mounted on the Hippo's back for counting beads. The wires may detach from the body of the hippo releasing the counting beads. The package reads in part: "Ages 2 and up, Toddlers learn to count from 1 to 5 by 'flipping' the easy-moving counters..." Approximately 1,000 toys sold for $4.95 each and were made in Taiwan. 9" Angel Doll (#MU69) Imported from China, consists of a soft body with a plastic head and painted on face. The hair is made of straight fine yarn with a bow at the top of the head. These dolls are dressed in a one-piece outfit which has elastic at the neck, wrists, and legs. Their hands hold a bouquet of flowers. These flowers have a plastic center which could break during use and present an aspiration hazard to children. Approximately 600 dolls sold for $2.50 and were made in China. Pull-Along Activity Loco (#HKT-7277) Imported from Hong Kong, consists of an eight and one-quarter-inch tall train engine on four red plastic wheels. The toy has nine different fun activities which include a spinning telephone dial with ringing bell, a squeaking whistle, windows with sliding mirrored shades, a funny clock face with movable hands, a colorful wheel that turns around, a spinning ball headlight, colorful counting rings, a see-through smokestack with tumbling beads and a click-click sound when moved along. This toy may break during during use releasing the tumbling beads from the see-through smokestack and exposing sharp points under the front wheels. An estimated 900 Pull-Along Activity Locos sold for approximately $14.95 each and were made in China. The package states in part "Age over 18 months." Tell By Touch (#CPX-48) Imported from Thailand, consists of a wooden board with 10 circular openings for placement of 10 matching cylinders. Each opening and each cylinder has a textured top surface ranging from soft velvet to rough sandpaper. The cylinder pieces are small enough to present a serious choking hazard to young children. Approximately 800 toys were sold for an estimated $14.95 each and were made in Thailand. This recall affects only those Tell by Touch toys that have cylinders with red painted sides purchased before January 1, 1990. Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children and return them to the store where purchased for a exchange or gift certificate. Consumers with additional concerns or questions about this recall may write to U.S. Toy Co., Inc., 1227 East 119th Street, Grandview, MO 64030. These hazardous toys were identified as a result of a consumer complaint in addition to a joint surveillance program conducted between the CPSC and the U.S. Customs Service at the Port of Kansas City. Neither the CPSC nor the U.S. Toy Company is aware of any injuries caused by these four toys. 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 these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
March 22, 1991 Release # 91-056 Kellogg Company Recalls Bunny Rabbit Because Of Potential Choking Hazards WASHINGTON, DC -- Kellogg Company of Battle Creek, Michigan is voluntarily recalling 15,576 plush bunnies that were individually given to consumers on Thursday, March 14, and Friday, March 15, 1991, at a very limited number of grocery stores located in 33 states and Puerto Rico. Several bunnies have been found with broken eyes and noses which pose a potential choking hazard for young children. The bunnies were given out as part of a special in-store promotion. The stuffed bunnies are approximately 13" tall and are white with pink ears, feet, and nose. A tag attached to the back has the name, "Kellogg's". Kellogg indicated that they are recalling the bunnies because of a manufacturing defect and that they are committed to delivering high quality premiums to their consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) learned of this problem through a report by Kellogg Company. Consumers who were given one of these bunnies are urged to take them away from young children immediately and call Kellogg Company (in the United States 1-800-468-9004 and in Puerto Rico 1-800-848-4589) for instructions on returning the bunny postage paid and receiving an alternative plush toy. The 33 states are Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. 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 products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths. MEDIA INQUIRIES TO KELLOGG SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO NEIL NYBERG, (616) 961-3799
March 21, 1991 Release # 91-055 General Electric Voluntarily Recalls Certain Drip Coffeemakers That May Pose A Fire Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The General Electric Company (GE) in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today announced the voluntary recall of certain GE brand and Universal brand drip coffeemakers manufactured before April 28, 1984 which present a potential fire hazard. The company believes that a fire hazard may occur when a purchased thermal fuse in the coffeemaker fails to function as intended. About nine million drip coffeemakers bearing the GE or Universal brand name were manufactured between 1976 and 1984. GE has received approximately 400 reports of coffeemakers overheating. It has been alleged recently that one fire caused by a fuse failure resulted in two fatalities and serious personal injury to eight other people. GE has received claims that fuse failures also may have been responsible for fires that resulted in one additional death and 15 personal injuries. Approximately 375 of the claims involve property damage ranging in value from $300 to $1.3 million. As an incentive, GE is offering owners $10 for each recalled unit returned. A $10 check will be mailed when a unit is received by GE. GE will give consumers with recalled coffeemakers pre-paid mailing cartons. In the carton will be instructions that will tell consumers how to arrange for convenient pick-up. This new method of recall is aimed at reducing consumer effort and increasing the rate of return. No units made on or after April 28, 1984 are involved in this recall. To determine the date of manufacture, check the date code number stamped on the outside metal blade of the electric plug. If the number is 418 through 600, the coffeemaker is not involved in this recall. Other GE brand and Universal brand drip coffeemakers which are not involved in the recall are: - Space Maker Drip Coffeemakers (catalog numbers that include the designations SDC1, SDC2, and SDC3) - Percolators Owners of a GE brand or Universal brand drip coffeemaker are asked to read both the catalog number on the bottom of the unit and the date code stamped on the outside of the metal blades of the electric plug. If the coffeemaker is a recalled unit, consumers should call toll-free 1-800-443-9000. The recalled coffeemakers are not repairable, and owners should unplug the unit and stop using it immediately. Consumers are being asked to check the automatic drip coffeemakers at their home and place of work. The CPSC is issuing this joint 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. FOR TV REPORTERS/ASSIGNMENT EDITORS;VIDEOTAPE ON THIS RELEASE WILL BE AVAILABLECALL DAN RUMELT AT 301-492-6580GE CONTACTS: OGDEN MORSE, MARGARET DURANTE,AND MARY-MIKE SIMONS MAY BE REACHED AT 212-614-400
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
March 19, 1991 Release # 91-046 Inventory Liquidators Corp. Recalls Action Copter Happy Bird And Action Land-Cruiser Wanderer WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Inventory Liquidators Corp., Itasca, IL is voluntarily recalling approximately 1,150 pieces of the "Action Copter HAPPY BIRD" (model number 7811B) and 1,150 pieces of the "Action Land-Cruiser WANDERER" (model number 7815B) because of small parts that could pose fatal choking and aspiration hazards to young children. When the CPSC tested the toys in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, small parts such as wheels and rotor blades detached from the "Action Copter HAPPY BIRD" and small parts such as the bumper, antenna, windshield and wheels detached from the "Action Land-Cruiser WANDERER." The "Action Copter HAPPY BIRD" is a plastic wind-up toy helicopter approximately five inches long. The helicopter is brightly colored in red with white rotor blades, five "HAPPY BIRD" insignias, a pilot wearing a red cap, three wheels (two back wheels and one front wheel), and one blue turn key at the base of the helicopter. The turn key activates the wheels, rotates the blades and jiggles the pilot up and down. The toy is packaged in a cardboard blister pack labeled in part "No. 7811B, Made in China." The "Action Land-Cruiser WANDERER" is a plastic wind-up toy vehicle approximately four and one-half inches long. The vehicle is brightly colored in red with a rotating radar antenna, three "WANDERER" decals, a driver wearing a red cap, four black wheels and one blue turn key at the base of the vehicle. The turn key activates the wheels, rotates the radar antenna and jiggles the driver up and down. The toy is packaged in a cardboard blister pack labeled in part "No. 7815B, Made in China." The toys, imported by Inventory Liquidators Corp., were sold in retail stores in Illinois, Indiana, New York, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin from May 1990 to September 1990 for approximately $1.50 each. The potentially hazardous toys were identified at the Port of Chicago during a joint CPSC/U.S. Customs surveillance program. Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving these products. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of 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 questions about this recall may contact Inventory Liquidators Corp. at 1-708-250-7575 or write the firm at 1100 Maplewood Drive, Itasca, IL 60143. 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 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
March 18, 1991 Release # 91-044 Pacifier Pal Recalled By W.B. Nod and Company WASHINGTON, DC -- W.B. Nod and Company of Atlanta, GA is voluntarily recalling approximately two million pacifier holders (Model #CP-301) because of small parts which are a choking hazard. The pacifier holder being recalled is a two-inch by one- inch plastic badge embossed with a rainbow design and the name "Pacifier Pal." On the back of the badge is a safety pin. The product was sold with three interchangeable multi- colored ribbons with metal snaps at each end for attaching a pacifier. The metal snaps may come loose from the ribbon and could pose a choking hazard to infants. The pacifier holders were sold nationwide from 1985 until 1989 for about $2.00 each. Neither the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) nor W.B. Nod and Company is aware of any injuries involving this pacifier holder. Redesigned pacifier holders manufactured and sold by the company since February 1990, and not subject to recall, utilize plastic snaps on the ribbon and have a clip on the back of the badge. The model number for these pacifier holders not subject to this recall is CP-311. Consumers having the model CP-301 "Pacifier Pal" pacifier holder should remove the holders from infants and return them directly to W.B. Nod and Company for a replacement with the new product. Consumers who have any questions about this recall may call W.B. Nod and Company at 1-800-882-8783 or write to W.B. Nod and Company at 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30328. These pacifier holders were imported from China and Turkey and were distributed by W.B. Nod and Company. The CPSC became aware of the hazardous pacifier holders from a consumer complaint about the product's safety pin opening during use exposing a child to the point of the pin. No injury occurred. 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 these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths
March 18, 1991 Release # 91-047 WASHINGTON, DC -- Chadwick-Miller, Inc. of Canton, MA voluntarily recalled approximately 14,000 Toy Soldier Train toys #96774 because various wooden components separate from the toy and are a fatal choking hazard to young children. This recall was conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The wooden train toy is a set of 30 two and one-quarter- inch painted soldiers, one unpainted steam locomotive with four red wheels, a twenty-eight inch blue pull cord, three unpainted flat bed cars with twelve pegs each for mounting the soldiers, and six blocks with multiplication signs painted in red. The set is contained in a brown cardboard box labeled, "Chadwick Set of 30 Wooden Toy Soldiers with train...Made in China." The toys were distributed nationwide from 1986 to 1989. The retail price ranged from $9.98 to $12.98 each. Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent any possibility of injury. Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children and destroy the product. As the firm is out of business, a remedy is no longer available.The hazardous toys were discovered by a CPSC employee who received gift catalogs in the mail