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All product recalls affecting Michigan.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Michigan in the distribution area.
November 18, 1982Release #82-049 CPSC Warns Of Explosion Hazard with Fireplace-Powered Water Heaters Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers of an explosion hazard with certain fireplace-powered water heaters used to supplement home heating systems. Units involved were sold under the brand names "Hydrohearth," "Hydroplace," and "Aqua Grate." Manufacturers of these units - Ridgeway Steel Fabricators, Inc. of Ridgeway, Pennsylvania and Shark Manufacturing Corporation of Greenlawn, New York are no linger in business. These devices are made of tubular steel or steel plate and resemble a fireplace grate or liner. Plumbing connects the unit to the hot-water heating system of the home. When these is a fire in the fireplace, furnace heat is either supplemented or replaced entirely by heat generated through the fireplace. Slowing or stopping the flow of water through the unit (resulting from circulator pump failure, electrical power failure, or frozen pipes) may result in water in the unit boiling into steam. If the unit does not have an adequate pressure relief device, properly installed, the build-up of pressure can cause an explosion. CPSC urges consumers who have one of these units to have its installation checked by a qualified, licensed plumber who has specific knowledge of boilers, water pumps, pipe freezing problems, and pressure relief valves. Of particular importance is the location, pressure rating, and flow capacity of the safety valve. If there is no safety valve, have one installed with a pressure rating and flow capacity suitable for any type of fire. The safety valve should be installed in the outlet piping as near to the unit as possible without risking damage due to overheating. It should be oriented according to the valve manufacturer's recommendation to avoid safety valve clogging. The outlet pipe from the unit to the safety valve should contain no valves or other restrictions. The safety valve should be checked periodically by triggering it to be sure that it will relieve pressure. This should be done with caution, by a knowledgeable person, to avoid hot water scalding. Other fireplace-powered water heaters that contain built-in safety devices such as burst disks, fusible plugs, or blowout plugs, are not subject to this warning. Information on the devices involved and what owners of these devices should do can be obtained by calling the Commission's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC
Serious Strangulation Risks Still Exist In Previously Recalled Stuffed Toys NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 16, 1982 Release # 82-048 CPSC Survey Reveals Serious Strangulation Risks Still Exist In Previously Recalled Stuffed Toys WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A survey by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission revealed that as many as 180,000 stuffed plush mobile animal toys that were originally voluntarily recalled by R. Dakin & Co. in 1979-80, may continue to pose a strangulation hazard to infants. For this reason the importer of the toys, R. Dakin & Co. of San Francisco, has redoubled its efforts to remove the hazard from consumer's hands. The 1982 CPSC survey analysis (the first of its kind conducted) indicated that a majority of Dakin consumers contacted were not aware of the recall. Some who still owned the toy were using it in a manner that placed their children at risk. An eleven-month-old baby girl and an eight-month-old baby boy strangled in the fall of 1979 where in separate incidents, each became entangled in the elastic strings suspending the toy from a crib bedpost. R. Dakin & Co. had undertaken a voluntary recall program in 1979-80 to notify toy owners of the potential hazard. Over 400,000 toys were then involved. Dakin's renewed efforts include paid ads in magazines aimed at parents of infants and toddlers. Dakin has also agreed to mail safety warning posters to thousands of pediatricians across the country for display in their waiting rooms. Involved in the recall are six different models of stuffed toys which are intended to be suspended by means of three elastic cords. The recalled Dakin toys are: Hummbug Bee Model 34-3645 Embo Elephant Model 34-1972 Jolly Polly Parrot Model 34-3462 Stanley Stork Model 34-3653 Lucky Ladybug Model 34-3662 Duckswoop Model 34-3666 Each toy is covered with plush fabric and contains a musical chime device. The R. Dakin & Co. name appears on a tag sewn on each animal. The stuffed toys were imported from South Korea and sold in the United States approximately $7-10 in toy and other retail stores. For a full refund of the retail purchase price and reimbursement of postage costs , parents should return the animals to R. Dakin & Co., 499 Point San Bruno Blvd., South San Francisco, California 94080. Consumers who wish to keep the toys should: 1) cut off the three elastic cords, and 2) phone Dakin, toll-free, at 800-227-6598; in California, 800-632-2179.
Squeeze Toys Recalled by Electra-Plastics NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 10, 1982 Release # 82-047 Happy-Mates Squeeze Toy Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Electra-Plastics, Inc. of Port Newark, New Jersey, today announced a voluntary recall of four "Happy-Mates" squeeze toys because they are small enough to lodge in the throat of a child and obstruct the airway thus causing choking and/or suffocation. Although these particular toys have not been involved in any choking incident known to CPSC, similar shaped toys have been involved in choking deaths. Between 8 pnd 9 thousand of these toys have been distributed primarily in the northeastern states during the last 2 years. All four squeeze toys have bulbous or flared ends measuring 3/4" to 1 l/4" in diameter and handles that are 2 3/4" long. Overall length of the toys is.5". The toys are: orange lion's head with bow tie on orange handle yellow cat's head with bow tie on yellow handle green frog's head with bow tie on white handle pink pig's head with bow tie 'on pink handle The toys are made of soft easily compressed plastic material and are packaged and sold under the brand name "Happy Mates." They are stamped "Taiwan" on the squeaky portion. The packaging bears the number H702. Consumers should remove these products from use immediately and return to the retailer where purchased for full refund. Or consumers may return the toys to Electra-Plastics, Inc., Bldg. 305, Navy and Neptune Streets, Port Newark, N.J. 07114 for a full refund. The telephone number is 201-589-2525. Retailers should remove the toys from sale immediately and return to Electra-Plastics, Inc. for a full refund.
Playmobil Toys Recalled by McDonald's NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 3, 1982 Release # 82-046 McDonald's Voluntarily Stops Playmobil Promotion And Recalls WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today that McDonald's Corporation of Oakbrook, Illinois, has voluntarily stopped further Playmobil toy promotion and distribution as of November 1st. McDonald's made this decision immediately after learning that recent tests showed the Playmobil toys failed to comply with CPSC's regulation designed to prevent choking hazards to children under three. The Playmobil toys, which are manufactured by the Schaper Manufacturing Company of Minneapolis, Minnesota, have not been involved in any known choking incidents. Five toys were to be distributed nationwide through approximately 5,800 McDonald's restaurants. The five toys included a Sheriff, Indian, Sheriff's Horse, Umbrella Girl and Farmer. Approximately 10 million of the Sheriff and Indian Playmobil toys in this promotion were actually distributed from October 22nd through November 1st. The plastic toy figures have movable parts and are accompanied by various plastic accessories. Consumers with children under three who received these Playmobil toys should discontinue their use and return the toys to a McDonald's restaurant in exchange for a box of McDonald's cookies, a cone or a refund.
Swyngomatic Converta Cradles Repaired by Grace Metal NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 1982 Release # 82-044 Voluntary Repair Program Announced For Swyngomatic Converta Cradles WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Grace Metal Products, Inc., of Elverson, Pennsylvania, today announced a voluntary repair program affecting approximately 67,000 "Swyngomaric" Converta Cradles. The repair program is being conducted as a result of alleged insufficient support for the cradle's masonite bottom board which may allow infants to fall out of the cradle if the board is not positioned properly during assembly by the purchaser. The Commission is aware of 36 instances of the bottom collapsing which resulted in children falling out of the cradle to the ground. In at least 13 of these instances, injuries resulted consisting of bruises and cuts to the infants. The repair program applies to Converta Cradles manufactured from September, 1979 through July, 1980. The product is marketed as a 3 in 1 unit which can be used as a cradle, a swing or a carry cradle. The cradle consists of mesh sides with a steel tubular carrying handle which connects to the wind up mechanism. Those cradles which do not have two metal rods supporting the bottom board are affected by this repair program. The products, which were sold exclusively through Grace Children's Products, Inc., for $30 to $45 have been sold in retail stores nationwide under the trade name, "Swyngomatic", models 5900, 5905 and 5970. They were also sold by Sears,Roebuck and Co. in its catalogue under the "Swyngomatic" name, catalogue i/36261 and 36273; J.C. Penney Company in its catalogue under the trade name "Toddle time", catalogue #5161, and Montgomery Ward in its catalogue under the trade name "Wynd-A-Matic", catalogue number 5339. Grace has redesigned the bottom cradle board with floor support rods which they believe will provide an additional safety feature in the event the bottom board is not properly positioned during assembly. Consumers owning affected Converta Cradles should write to Grace Metal Products, P.O. Box 200, Elverson, Pennsylvania 19520 or call the firm on its toll-free telephone number, 800-345-4109 (in Pennsylvania, call 215-286-5951), for a free support kit consisting of two steel support rods, fasteners, and assembly instructions. Until the support rods are received, consumers are cautioned against using affected cradles.
Pronto Caffe Espresso/Cappuccino Machines Recalled by Continental Gourmet NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 29, 1982 Release # 82-042 Continental Gourmet Corp. And CPSC Reach Agreement To Replace Parts On Some Pronto Caffe EM-L Espresso Cappuccino Appliances WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Continental Gourmet Corp. of Edison, New Jersey, has agreed to replace parts on its Pronto Caffe EM-l Espresso/Cappuccino SBevearge Makers which were manufactured through May 1980. Approximately 22,000 units may be involved. According to CPSC, the coffee basket in particular units b of this appliance may be difficult to secure. The unit has a water reservoir below which the coffee basket is attached. The brewed coffee drips into a glass carafe positioned directly beneath the basket. If the coffee basket is not properly secured to the unit, the normal buildup of steam pressure could potentially cause the basket to dislodge and strike the glass carafe, resulting in flying glass and hot liquid. Eleven incidents of apparent basket detachment have been reported to the CPSC, four of which noted the occurrence of minor injuries consisting of cuts and burns. Additional incidents have been reported directly to the Company, two of which allegedly resulted in minor injuries. These beverage makers can be identified by the following date codes located on the bottom of each unit, the first number in each column indicating the month and second number indicating the year: 11 9 or 11 79 12 9 or 12 79 1 8 or 1 80 2 8 or 2 80 3 8 or 3 80 4 8 or 4 80 5 8 or 5 80 Continental Gourmet Corp. is offering consumers a replacement of the original coffee basket with a "universal" basket that has been modified for easier and more secure attachment to the unit and an unbreakable plastic carafe for the original glass carafe. Consumers who own an EM-l model with date codes specified above should refrain from using their appliance and, should contact the Continental Gourmet Corp. on its toll-free numbers as follows to obtain replacement parts: ALL UNITED STATES, EXCEPT THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY: (800) 631-5473 ALL OF NEW JERSEY, EXCEPT (201) AREA CODE: (800) 272-1293 NEW JERSEY (201) AREA CODE: (201) 287-5360 or write to: Continental Gourmet Corp. 11 Executive Avenue Edison, New Jersey 08817
Contemporary Times "Stralighter" Cribs Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 22, 1982 Release # 82-040 Dangerous Baby Cribs WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers that in excess of 1,000 "Stralighter" non-full size baby cribs manufactured between 1975 and 1978 by Contemporary Times, Inc., St. Petersburg, Florida, present a neck entrapment hazard. A nine-month-old baby died as a result of asphyxiation when her neck became entrapped in the crib slats. The "Starlighter" crib is made of plastic and has hinged fold-down side rails. When the top half of the side rail is folded down, the lower half of the side rail presents a picket fence configuration in which the baby's neck may become entrapped. In addition to the entrapment hazard, the baby may fall out of the crib and sustain injury as a result of improper crib side height. The side rail in its lowest position is below the top of the mattress in its highest position, making it possible for the baby to fall out of the crib. Consumers should immediately discontinue the use of the "Starlighter" crib. There is no adequate and feasible "fix" for the entrapment hazard. Consumers should not attempt to make such a "fix" because it is most likely to present other hazards to babies. Contemporary Times, Inc. is insolvent and undergoing a federal bankruptcy proceeding. The firm has, therefore, refused to recall or repurchase the cribs. The crib was sold nationwide at retail for approximately $200.00.
Drip Coffeemakers Recalled by GE NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 26, 1982 Release # 82-035 General Electric Recalls Drip Coffeemakers WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) the General Electric Company (GE) advises owners of certain GE drip coffeemakers that a potential fire hazard may be present in some units manufactured before June 1978. The hazard may occur when a thermal fuse in the coffeemaker occasionally fails to function as intended during an overheat condition. GE has received over 400 reports of overheating, counter top damage or fires. These incidents have resulted in 11 claims involving hand and foot burns or smoke inhalation. GE estimates that approximately 200,000 of these coffeemakers are still in use. GE has voluntarily instituted a national program to replace the drip coffeemakers in question, Owners of GE coffeemakers are asked to read both the catalog number on the bottom of the coffeemaker and the date code stamped on the outside of the metal blades of the electric plug. If the unit is identified as in the table below, owners should call the GE Answer Center, a 24-hour, toll free service, at l-800-626-2000 for complete information on free replacement. No other coffeemakers or other products are involved. Identification Table Catalog Number Date Code Bl-3385-0, Bl-3382-0 with Date Code between 634 thru 717 Bl-3390-0 with Date Code between 704 thru 717 Bl or B2-3387-0 with Date Code between 618 thru 822 In addition to this announcement, GE will reach owners of the units in question through: Owner Registration Cards Notice to Consumers in Replacement Carafe and Filter Packages Notice to Consumers with Mail-In Orders for Replacement Parts Consumers who identify their drip coffeemakers according to the above table are advised to stop using it, to unplug the unit, and not attempt to disassemble or service it themselves.
Infant Seat/Carriers Recalled by Pines NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 17, 1982 Release # 82-034 Voluntary Recall Program Announced For Infant Seat/Carriers WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Pines of America, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, today announced a voluntary refund program affecting 15,000 combination infant seat/carriers. The combination infant seat and carrier features a removable leg rest, removable feeding tray and a metal frame permitting use as either a rocker, stationary seat or carrier. When used as a carrier, consumers may carry the product by holding it under its detachable leg rest. By carrying it in this manner, the leg rest may come off and allow the product to fall off the carrier. Pines of America has received two reports of leg rests becoming detached while being used to carry the infant and carrier, allegedly allowing the infant being carried to fall out. The products were sold by numerous retail stores nationwide under the brand name of "Tenderkare," model 412 and by Sears, Roebuck and Co. under the brand name of "Winnie-the-Pooh Rocker-Carrier," model 36511, between 1975 and 1980 for approximately $20.00. No other infant seat/carriers are involved in this refund program. Earlier efforts by the firm to reach owners of affected products have resulted in few returns of the detachable leg rests. Consumers owning affected models should discontinue use of the detachable leg rest as a handle and should return the leg rest (with their name and address) in exchange for a $5.00 refund to Pines of America, 5120 Investment Drive, P.O. Box 8601, Ft. Wayne, Indiana 46808, Postage costs will also be Reimbursed. Consumers requiring additional information on this refund program, should call Pines of America toll-free at 800-348-0751, or the CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
July 27,1982 Release # 82-036 CPSC Recalls Rattles BACKGROUND: - In 1978, the Consumer Product Safety Commission banned rattles that could become caught in infant's throats and cause choking and suffocation. The ban was issued when the Commission became aware of 10 fatalities and 19 choking incidents since 1943. Recently, the Commission has found some banned rattles being sold. WASHINGTON, D.C., In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission two firms, The Montgomery Schoolhouse, Inc., Montgomery, Vermont and Schowanek of America, New York, N.Y., have agreed to voluntarily recall banned rattles. Consumers are asked to remove these rattles from use immediately. The Montgomery Schoolhouse, Inc., Montgomery, Vermont, is recalling approximately 61,000 baby rattles. The toys were sold since September, 1981. To date there have been no reported injuries involving Montgomery Schoolhouse rattles. The rattles are made of hardwood. Some have colored parts and some have clear varnish finish. Three of the seven designs recalled have metal bells enclosed in hardwood cages. Some of the rattles were sold in "blister" packages with the words "RATTLE, Heirloom Quality, Hardwood, Childsafe Color' printed on the face. Some were sold in plastic bags with a paper insert which said " finest Handcrafted Wooden Toys from Vermont" and the names "TT Bell Rattle" or "TT 5 Disc Rattle." Others were sold without packaging. Consumers should return the rattles to the retailer where they were purchased in exchange for rattles that meet the federal safety requirements. Or consumers may return the rattles directly to the Montgomery Schoolhouse, Inc., Montgomery, Vermont 05470, for exchange. Retailers are asked to remove these rattles from sale immediately and return them to the Montgomery Schoolhouse, Inc. in exchange for rattles in compliance with federal regulations. Schowanek of America, New York, N.Y., is recalling approximately 2,900 wooden baby rattles imported since 1981. To date there have been no reported injuries involving Montgomery Schoolhouse rattles. The rattles are No. 10875/2, a duck on a handle; No. 10875/33, dumb bell shape; No. 10876/17, bowling pin; 10876/3, dumb bell shape with pieces of wood on the shaft; No. 10876/26 bar bell with 4 wooden rings on the shaft; No. 10876/g handle with head and arms; and No. 10876/19 cylinder with six holes and bell inside (not in picture). Consumers should return these rattles to the place of purchase for refund or exchange. Consumers can also return the rattles directly to Schowanek for a refund. Retailers are asked to remove the rattles from sale immediately and return them to Schowanek for exchange or credit
Gerico Baby Back Carriers Recalled Because of Potential Hinge Safety Problem NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Telephone Number & Responding Company Change, and remedy is no longer available. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued July 13, 1982, Last revised June 15, 2004 Release # 82-031 Gerico Baby Back Carriers Recalled Because of Potential Hinge Safety Problem WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Gerico, Inc., Denver, Colorado, had announced a voluntary repair program affecting approximately 238,000 "Gerry Carrier" and "Pak-A-Poose" baby back carriers. The carriers were manufactured between March 1979 and February 1981 and were being repaired because of a potential infant finger entrapment in the hinge mechanism on the moveable stand which supports the carrier when it is placed on a surface. The potential for entrapment occurs if the carrier's stand bar is opened while the child is in the carrier on the adult's back and the child's fingers are out of view. The Commission is aware of at least 23 incidents of finger entrapment resulting in 9 injuries. Injuries have included pinching, lacerations, and partial finger tip severance. Only carriers manufactured between March 1979 and February 1981 are involved. Carriers manufactured before or after these dates are not subject to the recall since they contain differently designed hinge mechanisms. The carrier was sold under the "Gerry" brand name by independent and chain retailers nationwide, as well as in U.S. Army and Air Force Exchanges. Retailers included K mart, Best Products, Woolworth, Woolco, Toys "R" Us and Montgomery Ward. The carrier was also sold nationwide under the label "Pak-A-Poose" by Sears, Roebuck and Co. The carriers sold at a price range of approximately $18-$30. To identify the product, consumers should locate the plastic brace at the bottom of the carrier. The date code of two, three or four digits is imprinted on the lower right inside portion of the brace (when facing the carrier straps). The first number is the last digit of the year the product was made. The following number or numbers on the top and bottom lines indicate what day of the year the item was manufactured (see attached drawing). Products covered by the program fall between 9/64 (the sixty-fourth day of 1979) and l/60 (the sixtieth day of 1981). All carriers with date codes beginning with the digit 0 are affected since they were made in 1980. Consumers who have these carriers should discard them. Repair parts are no longer available. Consumers who have questions about this recall may contact Evenflo's Parent Link Consumer Resource Center at (800) 233-5921. (Gerico, Inc. is out of business, but the Evenflo Company has now taken over responding to this recall).
June 1, 1982 Release # 82-024 Brass Craft Manually Operated Appliance Connector Valves Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in cooperation with Brass Craft Manufacturing Co., in Detroit, Michigan is voluntarily recalling approximately 112,000 manually operated gas appliance connector valves because drying of the valve lubricant may cause the valve to leak gas when in a closed position. Brass Craft has already received approximately 77,000 units. The non displaceable rotor gas valves being recalled were manufactured between November, 1980 and July, 1981. They were distributed after January 1, 1981 to a variety of original equipment manufacturers, wholesale hardware/plumbing distributors and retailers for consumer use in connecting gas appliances such as stoves or furnaces where a straight pipe connection does not exist. There have been no reports of failure or injuries associated with the use of the valves. The recall pertains to Brass Craft non displaceable rotor gas valves identified as: GFNDI - E4 GFNDI -H6 GFNDI - G4 MGFNDI - H6 or attached to connectors identified as: SC2E (all lengths) SC3E (all lengths) SC4E (all lengths) SClE (all lengths) SD7L (all lengths) MSC4E (all lengths) SD4L (all lengths) SC5E (all lengths) SL4L (all lengths) SL7L (all lengths) These valves are easily identified by a pyramid sign and the letters BC embossed on each handle. Any of these valves with a + (plus) sign shown ahead of the BC were manufactured after August, 1981 and are not included in this voluntary recall program. Consumers should exercise caution when attempting to locate the valve and its model number. If any odor of leaking gas is present, consumers should not attempt to locate the valve but should instead immediately contact their LP or Natural gas supplier or appliance installer/contractor for assistance. When looking for the valve and model number, consumers should be careful not to use matches or any other ignition source which could cause any accumulated gas to explode. Consumers who use one of these valves should immediately contact their appliance or furnace installer, the gas supplier or call Brass Craft collect at 313-871-0933 and ask for the Quality Assurance Manager for instructions to have a new control valve installed free of charge or call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll free Hotline at 800-638-2772
June 1, 1982 Release # 82-025 Fuel Cups On Party Fondue Sets Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in cooperation with Gimbel Brothers, Inc., New York, New York, is voluntarily recalling approximately 3,046 Party Fondue Sets sold in Gimbels stores in New York City, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, due to a fuel leak at the seam of the alcohol-burning fuel cup. If the fuel cup is filled above the level of the seam joining the upper and lower parts of the cup, the alcohol fuel may leak out and cause a flash fire when the heating element is ignited by a user. Gimbel Brothers has received one complaint of burn injuries sustained by a person attempting to extinguish a flash fire in October, 1980. The recall covers only fondue sets sold by Gimbels stores in packaging labeled "Party Fondue Set." There is no further identification on the units or on the packaging. Owners are urged not to use them until they have obtained a replacement fuel cup. The Party Fondue Sets which were made in Japan were distributed from June, 1978 through October 1, 1980 in New York City, Milwaukee, and Pittsburgh , by Gimbel Brothers, Inc., for retail prices ranging from $15.99 to $19.99. Gimbel Brothers discontinued importation and removed all units from sale in October, 1980. Consumers who own one of these fondue sets may exchange the alcohol burning pot for a solid Sterno burning pot or receive a refund in the departments where purchased in any of the Gimbel stores
Hot Tub Suction Drain Fittings Recalled by Hydro Air NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 28, 1982 Release # 82-023 Recall Of Hot Tub, Spa, Whirlpool Suction Drain Fitting Because Of Hair Entrapment WASHINGTON, D.C. --The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in cooperation with Hydro Air Industries Inc., Orange, California, today announced a voluntary recall of approximately 125,000 suction drain cover fittings for spas, hot tubs and whirlpools because of the danger of hair entrapment. Three incidents have occurred when pre-teenage girls put their heads under water and their long hair became entangled in the suction drain cover fitting. Two incidents resulted in death by drowning, and in one incident the victim was pulled free. Water is drawn from the spa through 3-5/8 inch plastic suction fitting or drain covers located on the wall of the spa l-3 inches from the bottom. A powerful strong suction exists at the water outlet suction fitting or drain cover when the high speed whirlpool suction is turned on. The Hydro Air suction drain cover fittings can be identified by the three slots on the face of the fitting cover. The middle slot measures 3/16 inches by l-1/2 inches and the two slots on either side measures 3/16 inches by l-1/4. These suction/drain cover fittings have been sold nationwide since 1979. Most sales occurred within California, Arizona, Texas and Florida. Consumers should immediately stop using their hot tubs, spas and whirlpools. They should contact the company responsible for the installation, or Hydro Air Industries, Inc. (1317 W. Grove, Orange, CA 92665, Telephone: 714-974-1920, call collect), to determine whether their unit has a defective suction/drain cover and to make arrangements for a free replacement.
Squeeze Toys Recalled by Reliance NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 1982 Release # 82-022 Reliance "Protecto Hold Me Tite" Squeeze Toy Recalled Because Of A Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Reliance Products Corporation, Woonsocket, Rhode Island, today announced a voluntary recall of approximately 390,000 "Protecto Hold Me Tite" squeeze toys, Assortment #06233, because of the danger of choking and/or suffocation. Since 1974 approximately 390,000 of the toys have been sold for approximately $1.97 each. There have been two separate reports alleging that a four month old and a six month old infant choked and suffocated when the handle of the "Hold Me Tite" squeeze toy lodged in the throat and caused obstruction of the airways. The product is an animal shaped squeeze toy with a handle and a built in squeaker. Three models are involved: a pink elephant, a yellow bear and an orange lion. The product is packaged and sold under the brand name "PROTECTO" and labeled "Hold Me Tite" assortment number 06233. Stamped on the squeaker section on the back of the head is "Reliance Products Corporation, Made in Taiwan." Consumers should remove these products from use immediately and return them to the retailer where purchased for a full refund. Or consumers may return the squeeze toy to Reliance Products Corporation, 108 Mason Street, P.O. Box 1220, Woonsocket, Rhode Island for a full refund. Retailers should remove the toys from sale immediately and return to Reliance Products Corporation for a full refund.
Attic Ventilators Recalled by Emerson NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 1982 Release # 82-020 Emerson Electric Company Recalling Powered Attic Ventilators In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Emerson Electric Company, St. Louis, Missouri, today announced a voluntary recall of 11,500 roof-mounted powered attic ventilators sold by Sears, Roebuck and Co. The motors of the ventilators may overheat and cause roof-top fires. The attic ventilators were sold nationwide through Sears retail stores and catalog sales in 1980 and 1981, for approximately $70.00. The ventilators have a light-gray molded polyvinyl outer hood. The identification plate on the back of the motor bears the Model No. 758.648360. The manufacturer has received several reports from consumers, since September 1981, alleging that these ventilators were involved in roof-top fires. No consumers have been injured in these fires. Consumers should examine the back of their attic ventilator and check the model number. Owners of the affected ventilators should discontinue using them and contact Emerson Electric Company on their toll-free number: l-800-325-4130. Missouri residents may call collect at 314-595-2507. The Companies will arrange for a service technician to visit the consumer's home and replace the motor of the ventilator free of charge.
Vac Attachments Recalled by Sun Hill NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 1982 Release # 82-019 1000 Sun Vac Attachments Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Sun Hill Industries, Inc. of Stamford, Connecticut, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, announced today that it is recalling its Sun Vac, a wet vac/dry cleaning vacuum attachment, because of a potential electric shock hazard. This product converts a regular dry vacuum cleaner to a vacuum cleaner which can pick up water or other liquids from floors and other surfaces. The product consists of a 3 l/2-gallon plastic bucket and two adapter hoses, one of which can be connected to a dry vacuum cleaner. Sun Hill Industries and the CPSC are concerned that an electric shock hazard could result if the product's bucket becomes full of water or accidentally tips over. Water could then be sucked into the vacuum cleaner, soaking the motor. This could result in a potentially severe or fatal electric shock if anyone touched a metallic part of the vacuum cleaner while standing on a wet floor. No accidents have been reported by purchasers or users of the attachment since it was first introduced in March of 1980. However, Sun Hill Industries is recalling the product in the interest of consumer safety. Sales were discontinued in February 1981, after almost 1,000 units had been distributed. Consumers who have purchased the Sun Vac are requested to return the product directly to Sun Hill Industries, Inc., Glenbrook Industrial Park, 652 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT 06906. Refunds for the original purchase price, and for transporting Sun Vac back to the company, will be forwarded directly to the purchaser. Consumers who have questions on return of the product or who wish further clarification should call collect Sun Hill Industries, Inc. at 203-324-7550.
Metal Utility Clamp Lamps Recalled by Mid-State NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 2, 1982 Release # 82-011 Metal Utility Clamp Lamps Recalled Because Of Shock Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A voluntary recall of approximately 8,000 metal socket utility clamp lamps was announced today by the Mid-State Manufacturing Corp. of Minneapolis, Minnesota , in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall is being conducted because of a potential shock or electrocution hazard from an electrical short to the metal reflector, lamp base, and handle. One consumer has received a serious electric shock using the product. The recall covers Mid-State models P60, R208, R68, R205, R65, LX6 and LG9, sold nationwide since March 1981 in retail and hardware stores including Coast- to-Coast, Gamble Skogmo, and some Hardware Hank stores. Only models with metal sockets are being recalled. The Mid-State identification appears on a cardboard tag on the product cord. Consumers should immediately stop using the product and return to the place of purchase or directly to the manufacturer for a free replacement. Mid-State Mfg. Corp., 1111 Aldrich Ave., North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55441. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers or retail locations where the lamps were sold may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Release # 82-008 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Creative Playthings had renewed its efforts to replace all estimated 137,000 to 239,000 Creative Playthings Indoor Gym House ladders following a recent strangulation death. The product was manufactured prior to 1980 by Creative Playthings, a unit of Gabriel Industries, a division of CBS Inc., New York, N.Y. Consumers are urged to remove and destroy the ladder immediately. The replacement program was conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission which advised the firm of the death of a two-year-old California boy on February 9, 1982, in an accident associated with a Creative Playthings Indoor Gym House. The firm first took corrective action for the product in February, 1980, after learning of an accidental death and an incident causing brain damage which later resulted in death to a child playing with the product. The firm then urged owners of the product to obtain a free replacement ladder because the original ladder posed a strangulation hazard. The Creative Playthings Indoor Gym House consists of a hollow, fiberboard-and-wood box 20 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 l/2 years, according to the manufacturer. It was sold for approximately $29 to $50 in toy stores and other retail outlets nationwide in knocked-down form to be assembled by the owner. The ladder that was being replaced was manufactured from 1962 through 1979. The gym houses with ladders that were being replaced are those with "Creative Playthings" printed on the side or with no lettering. The space between the upper rung of the ladder and the platform was small enough for a child's head to be inserted and become entrapped creating a potential for strangulation. The replacement ladder that had been offered by the firm was redesigned to reduce the likelihood of head entrapment. The Creative Playthings company that conducted the recall no longer exists. The replacement ladders are no longer available, and consumers should discard or destroy the ladder if they have the product. Creative Playthings had undertaken additional efforts to advise owners to destroy the old ladder. The firm sent letters and posters to pediatricians and daycare centers throughout the United States, advertised in magazines, provided a public service announcement to major networks, aimed a news campaign to consumer affairs editors, and sent advisory bulletins to organizations serving parents of young children. Creative Playthings "Indoor Gym House
Lawn Mowers Recalled by Black & Decker NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Telephone Number Change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued March 9, 1982; Revised May 27, 2003 Release # 82-007 Recall Of Black And Decker Lawn Mowers WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Black & Decker Manufacturing Company, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, today announced the recall and repurchase of approximately 18,000 of its Model No. 8055 19" Battery Powered (Cordless) Lawn Mowers because of a possible fire hazard. The lawn mowers were sold nationwide between 1976 and the present and are orange and white in color. The company said it wants to recover every mower of that model and is offering refunds to owners. Black & Decker has received reports of a possible fire hazard associated with the battery used to power the Model No. 8055 Lawn Mower. These reports indicate that under certain circumstances, it is possible for a fire to occur as a result of an unexpected discharge of the lawn mower battery. The discharge occurs when the lawn mower battery is not in use and is either being recharged or is unattended. Black & Decker will grant a prorated refund to all owners of the Model 8055 Battery 'Powered Lawn Mower and is attempting to locate all owners to inform them of the possible fire hazard and the repurchase program. Black & Decker will mail certified letters to all persons who have informed the company that they own one of the mowers to provide them instructions on how to return the mower and obtain a refund. This recall and refund program applies to every Model No. 8055 Lawn Mower, including those which may have been modified by Black & Decker during the past year. All owners of the model No. 8055 Battery Powered Lawn Mower who have not received a certified letter from Black & Decker should contact the company immediately by calling (410) 665-7400, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, or call the Commission's toll free Hotline at (800) 638-2772.