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All product recalls affecting Minnesota.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Minnesota in the distribution area.
Garments Made From a Flammable Fleece Fabric Recalled NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles February 28, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-074 CPSC and Importers Announce Recall of Garments Made From a Flammable Fleece Fabric WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), importers Regent International and Tomen America, both of New York, N.Y., are announcing the recall of dangerously flammable garments made from a fleece-type fabric. Over 138,000 adults' garments, primarily tops, are involved in this recall. The fabric, which fails to meet federal mandatory standards of fabric flammability, may ignite readily and present a serious risk of burn injuries in violation of the Federal Flammable Fabrics Act. Fabrics that do not comply with the standard typically burn faster than newspaper. CPSC is aware of one incident of a Regent top that ignited when exposed to a candle's flame, but no injuries resulted. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The fabric is a cotton-polyester blend material with a raised fiber surface. Its fleecy texture closely mimics that of an inside-out sweatshirt. This fabric is often called sherpa. Regent International Recall Regent International is recalling about 116,700 women's fleece garments, primarily tops in polo, crew, and tunic styles. Some jackets and pants are also included in this recall. The garments come in sage, peach, ivory, and gray and have two sewn-in labels, one that reads "Jason Maxwell" and the other that reads "Made in Turkey...RN 34570." The fiber content of the sage, peach, and ivory garments is 80% cotton 20% polyester, and the fiber content of the gray garments is 55% cotton 45% polyester. The garments were sold nationwide mainly by J.C. Penney, although they were also sold by other retailers, including Petrie, Jean Nicole, Stuarts, Dayton's, Hudson's, and Marshall Fields. The garments were sold from October 1996 through January 1997 for about $20 to $40. Link to CPSC's provisionally accepted settlement agreement with Regent. Tomen America Recall Tomen America is recalling about 21,400 men's fleece shirts. The shirts are long-sleeved henley-style pullovers with a five-button closure at the neck. The shirts come in navy, spruce green, olive green, natural, burgundy, and gray and have two sewn-in labels, one that reads "Fast" and the other that reads "Made in Korea...RN 57336." The fiber content of the shirts is 80% cotton/20% polyester. The garments were sold nationwide by Ross Dress For Less. The garments were sold from July 1996 through January 1997 for about $10 to $20. CPSC urges consumers to immediately stop wearing garments they believe may be involved in this recall. Consumers should return the garments to the store where purchased for a full refund. This recall does not extend to other Jason Maxwell or Fast garments. For more information, consumers can call Regent International toll-free at (800) 536-1500 and Tomen America toll-free at (888) 287-2207. CPSC is continuing to investigate fleece garments to determine whether or not they are in compliance with the law.
XCEL Windshield Washer Fluid Recall by Petroleum Packers NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles February 25, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-072 CPSC, Petroleum Packers Inc. Recall XCEL Windshield Washer Fluid WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Petroleum Packers Inc. of Tampa, Fla., is recalling about 4,000 bottles of XCEL brand windshield washer fluid. The bottles of fluid, which contain methyl alcohol, are not labeled with the necessary warnings, precautionary measures, chemical identification, and instructions for first aid in the event of ingestion, as required by the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Methyl alcohol is toxic and can cause blindness or death if ingested. CPSC and Petroleum Packers are not aware of any injuries involving this product. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. This recall involves XCEL windshield washer fluid sold in 1-gallon bottles sealed with black child-resistant closures. The bottles are labeled in part, "XCEL Windshield Washer Fluid Protects to 0o C UPC # 20923 05217." W.L. Petrey, Reliance Oil Co., Fletcher Oil Co., B&B Cash Grocery, Bradenton Fuel Oil, and Super Valu stores in the Southeast and Midwest sold the fluid in the fall and winter of 1996 for about $1 a gallon. Consumers should stop using the fluid immediately, and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers can call Petroleum Packers at (800) 231-3133. XCEL windshield washer fluid sold in bottles with red closures do not contain methyl alcohol and are not involved in this recall.
Lighted Magic Faucet & Fountain Mugs Recall NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: FEBRUARY 18, 1997 (301) 504-7908 Release # 97-069 CPSC, Atico International Inc. Recall Novelty Mugs WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Atico International Inc. of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is recalling about 74,400 Lighted Magic Faucet mugs and about 22,400 Lighted Magic Fountain mugs. The novelty mugs' motors could overheat, creating a potential fire hazard. Atico and CPSC are not aware of any injuries involving these mugs. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The clear plastic mugs sit on a black round base. The base houses the electric motor. When the power is switched on, water recycles from the base of the mug, up a plastic tube into the "suspended" faucet (magic faucet) or "suspended" soda can (magic fountain) and then falls back into the mug. It appears as though water is coming from the "suspended" faucet or "suspended" soda can. The mugs also become illuminated by colored lights when the power is switched on. Walgreens and Eckerd Drugs stores nationwide sold the mugs from April 1996 through January 1997 for about $20. Consumers should stop using these mugs immediately, and return the mugs to the store where purchased for a full refund. If consumers have questions about this recall, they should call Atico International at (800) 645-3867.
Chain Saws Recalled by Stihl NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles FEBRUARY 18, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-070 CPSC, Stihl Inc. Recall Chain Saws WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Stihl Inc. of Virginia Beach, Va., is voluntarily recalling over 256,000 Stihl model 029 and 039 chain saws. The gas cap on some of these saws can loosen and leak fuel during use, which presents a fire hazard. Stihl Inc. has received nine reports of burn injury resulting from fires involving these chain saws. Model 029 or model 039 Stihl chain saws with a serial number of 235153631 and below are involved in this recall. The model number is located on top of the saws' engine, and the serial number is located in the saws' housing, above the bumper spikes, directly under the front hand guard. Stihl servicing dealers have sold the saws nationwide since March 1993 for about $350 to $450. Consumers should immediately stop using the saws, and return them to an authorized Stihl dealer for a free replacement of the gas cap. Because some of these saws were previously recalled in 1994 to repair an ignition ground wire, Stihl dealers will also check and if necessary, repair the ground wire free of charge. For more information, consumers can contact their authorized Stihl dealer or call Stihl Inc. at (800) GO-STIHL (467-8445).
Adapter Plug Packs Recall by Dollar Tree Stores NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Ken Giles February 6, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-066 CPSC, Dollar Tree Stores Inc. Recall Adapter Plug Packs WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Dollar Tree Stores Inc. of Norfolk, Va., is recalling about 60,000 adapter plug packs. The adapters were incorrectly identified as being listed with Underwriters Laboratories. The adapters present potential fire and shock hazards due to improper construction. CPSC and Dollar Tree Stores Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these adapter plugs. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The adapter plugs are used to connect a three-pronged electrical plug into a two-slot grounded outlet. The adapter plugs are made of orange rubber. The following words are imprinted into the rubber, "CAUTION...CONNECT TAB TO GROUNDED SCREW...CHINA...15A...125V." The adapter plugs are sold as sets of three. The three adapters are enclosed in a plastic shell with a black backer card. The package is labeled in part, "3 PK...GROUNDING ADAPTER PLUG...For connection of 3 pronged plug to a 2 slot grounded outlet...UL LISTED...MADE IN CHINA." Dollar Tree and Only One Dollar stores sold the adapter plugs in the South, Midwest, and East from January 1996 through July 1996 for $1. Consumers should stop using the adapter plugs immediately, and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should contact Dollar Tree at (800) 876-8077.
NNE Irons Recall by Leon Korol NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles February 6, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-067 CPSC and Leon Korol Company Recall Irons WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Leon Korol Company of Elk Grove Village, Ill., is recalling over 5,000 electric irons. The iron's thermostat does not have a back-up protective device to prevent overheating, which can present a fire hazard. CPSC has received one report of the iron catching on fire while in the "OFF" position. No injuries or property damage was reported. The iron (model YPZ-100) is made of white or red plastic, with a detachable water tank. The iron was packaged in a light blue, cardboard box labeled, "NNE Steam/Dry & Spray Electric Iron With Detachable Water Tank." The model number is located on a sticker on the back of the iron. The iron is imported from China by NNE International USA Inc. of Pomona, Calif. Discount stores sold the irons nationwide from December 1995 through February 1996 for about $10. Consumers should immediately stop using the irons, and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information about this recall, consumers can call Leon Korol Company toll-free at (888) 798-2004.
Spas, Hot Tubs, and Swimming Pools Drain Covers Recall NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: February 3, 1997 (301) 504-7908 Release # 97-065 CPSC and Hydro-Air Industries Recall Main Drain Covers in Spas, Hot Tubs, and Swimming Pools WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Hydro-Air Industries of Orange, Calif., is recalling about 206,000 (model 10-6200) main drain covers in spas, hot tubs, and swimming pools. Hydro-Air's model 10-6200 drain cover is designed to cover pipes carrying water out of spas, hot tubs, and swimming pools. Under certain circumstances, a bather's head can be held under water if the bather's hair becomes entangled in the drain cover as the water and hair are drawn through the drain. Hydro-Air is aware of two drownings and one near drowning resulting from hair getting trapped in the drain cover. Hydro-Air's model 10-6200 drain cover is a white circular plastic disc, measuring 6 inches in diameter with 18 rectangular openings on top. Each rectangular opening measures 3/4 inch long by 5/16 inch wide. "Hydro Air P/N 10-6200" is imprinted on the top of the cover. This drain cover was installed in spas, hot tubs, and swimming pools from 1980 to 1995. Consumers should inspect their spas, hot tubs, and swimming pools to determine if the model 10-6200 drain cover is installed. If so, consumers should immediately stop using their spas, hot tubs, and pools and contact Hydro-Air at (800) 230-9560 to receive a free replacement part. Swimming pool owners can contact Hydro-Air at (800) 230-9560 for guidance in the inspection process. Consumers should not use their spas, hot tubs, and swimming pools until the replacement part has been installed. If consumers choose to use their spas, hot tubs, and pools before the replacement part is installed, consumers should use extreme caution and follow these precautions: Keep long hair away from the main drain cover. Wear a bathing cap or pin hair up. Never allow a child to play in a way that could permit the child's hair to come near the main drain cover. Always supervise children around a spa, hot tub, or swimming pool. If the main drain cover is missing or broken, shut down the spa, hot tub, or swimming pool until the cover is replaced. Know where the cut-off switch for the pump is located, so that you can turn it off in an emergency.
Soft Walkin' Wheels Toy Vehicles Recall by Tonka NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: NYCHELLE WHITE JANUARY 29, 1997 (301) 504-7063 Release # 97-064 CPSC, Tonka Announce Recall of Soft Walkin' Wheels Toy Vehicles WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Tonka Corporation, a division of Hasbro Inc. of Pawtucket, R.I., is voluntarily recalling about 1 million Soft Walkin' Wheels (model 90165) toy vehicles, with serial numbers lower than 9528 or no serial number at all. The small wheel hubs can separate from the axle, creating a potential choking hazard. Tonka has received about 40 reports of wheel hubs separating from the axle, including two reports of children starting to choke. No injuries have been reported. Soft Walkin' Wheels are battery-powered, soft toy vehicles designed to move across floors in the home. They are covered in brightly colored nylon fabric and are available in five styles: dump truck, school bus, airplane, train, and fire truck. Soft Walkin' Wheels included in this recall have serial numbers lower than 9528 or do not have a visible serial number. The numbers are printed in blue ink on the sewn-in label that displays the toy's cleaning instructions, brand name, and model number. Major toy stores and mass merchandise outlets nationwide sold these toys beginning in January 1994 for about $15. Consumers should take these recalled toys away from children immediately. To receive a free replacement, consumers may call Tonka at 1 (800) 327-8264. Consumers may also return the toys to the store where purchased for a free replacement or full refund. Soft Walkin' Wheels (model 90165) with serial numbers 9528 and above; the Soft Walkin' Wheels Dalmatian, Dinosaur, or Pig; Soft Walkin' Tuggers; Soft Squeeze 'n Shine; and Soft Shakin' Wheels are not being recalled.
Go-Kart Axles Recall by Carter Brothers NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles January 22, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-061 CPSC, Carter Brothers Manufacturing Announce Recall to Retrofit Go-Kart Axles WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Carter Brothers Manufacturing Company Inc. of Brundidge, Ala., is recalling for retrofit about 5,000 go-karts with exposed rear axles. Riders can be seriously injured or killed if their long hair or clothing becomes entangled in the rotating axle. CPSC and Carter Brothers Manufacturing Company Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving exposed rear axles in these go-karts. This retrofit program is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The one-seat go-karts are powered by gasoline engines. Each go-kart has a model number (beginning with "17") and serial number on a red and silver label located on the frame at the side of or behind the seat. All Carter Brothers go-karts with an exposed rear axle are involved in this retrofit program. To determine whether the rear axle is exposed, consumers should stand behind the kart, with the engine off, and push the go-kart by hand. If the axle connecting the two rear wheels rotates, the go-kart is subject to this retrofit program. Outdoor power equipment stores, specialty stores, lawn and garden stores, and hardware stores sold the go-karts nationwide from January 1981 through December 1996 for about $900 to $2,000. The go-karts have been sold under the labels "Superwheels," "Hotbodies," "Kartwheels," "Master Karts," and "Desert Storm." Consumers should stop using these go-karts immediately and contact Carter Brothers at (800) 523-5278, or write the company at Route 1, Box 42, Brundidge, Ala. 36010 to receive a free axle guard. Consumers should provide the model number and serial number of the kart when contacting the company. Carter Brothers will send consumers a free axle guard kit with instructions for easy installation. Link to CPSC's provisionally accepted settlement agreement with Carter Brothers.
Gas Dryers Repair by Maytag Appliances NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles January 21, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-060 CPSC and Maytag Appliances Announce Recall to Inspect and Repair Gas Dryers WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Maytag Appliances, a business unit of Maytag Corporation of Newton, Iowa, is inspecting and repairing up to 73,000 older gas dryers produced under the Magic Chef, Admiral, Crosley, Norge, and Signature brands. (Maytag brand dryers are not involved). An electrical switch in the gas dryer can malfunction. This malfunction can result in the dryer overheating, posing a potential fire hazard. Maytag has received over 30 reports of dryer fires possibly caused by the electrical switch malfunction. In several instances, significant property damages have resulted. While one related injury has been reported, it was not a burn injury. Maytag Appliances is inspecting and repairing at no charge to consumers gas dryers sold under the brand names Magic Chef, Admiral, Crosley, and Norge that carry serial numbers beginning with DC, EC, FC, AD, BD, CD, DD, ED, GD, HD, JD, KD, LD, and MD and Signature brand dryers that carry serial numbers beginning with 98K, 98L, 98M, 09A, 09B, 09C, 09D, 09E, 09F, 09G, 09H, 09J, 09K, and 09L. Maytag will mail notices to consumers whose gas dryers are to be inspected. Retailers nationwide sold these gas dryers from 1989 through 1991. Consumers should check their dryer's serial number to determine if it may be part of the inspection and repair program. The serial number is located inside the dryer's door. Consumers who have one of these dryers can call Maytag Customer Service toll-free at 1 (800) 955-6566, or write to Maytag Customer Service, P.O. Box 8021, Cleveland, Tenn. 37320-8021. Consumers who own a dryer that is to be inspected are advised not to use the dryer until it has been repaired. Maytag media inquiries should be directed to Tom Schwartz at (515) 791-6342.
Pool Fittings Recall by Sta-Rite Industries NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: New Phone Number. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles Originally issued January 16, 1997, Revised July 1, 2004 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-059 CPSC and Sta-Rite Industries Announce Pool Fittings Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sta-Rite Industries Inc. of Delavan, Wis., is announcing a recall to retrofit model 08417 floor inlet fittings in gunnite and concrete pools and spas. Over 135,000 model 08417 floor inlet fittings have been manufactured for use in these pools and spas during the past 25 years. This inlet fitting is not used in above ground or vinyl-lined pools. Sta-Rite's model 08417 floor inlet fitting is designed to be used to cover pipes carrying water into a pool or spa. When the inlet fitting is improperly installed as an equalizer or suction fitting to cover pipes carrying water out of a pool or spa, a bather's hair may be drawn toward the cover and become entangled in the fitting, holding the bather's head under water. Sta-Rite is aware of two drownings resulting from hair getting trapped in the inlet fitting that was used on an equalizer pipe line in a swimming pool and a spa. Consumers should check with their pool or spa contractor to determine whether this floor inlet fitting is installed in their gunnite or concrete pools and spas. If the floor inlet fitting is installed as an equalizer or suction fitting, call Sta-Rite at (262) 728-5551 to receive a free replacement part. In June 1996, Sta-Rite began asking pool operators, builders and, suppliers to inspect all suction fittings installed in their pools and their customers' pools to determine whether Sta-Rite's model 08417 floor inlet fitting was being used as an equalizer or suction fitting.
Baby Buzz Infant Toys Recalled by Division Sales NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Ken Giles January 15, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-057 CPSC and Division Sales Announce Recall of Baby Buzz Infant Toys WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Division Sales Inc. of Chicago, Ill., is recalling over 26,000 Baby Buzz stretch mobiles. The toy presents a risk of strangulation if hung across a crib or playpen. It is not labeled to warn consumers about the risk and not to attach the toy to a crib or playpen. CPSC and Division Sales are not aware of any injuries involving these toys. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The recalled toy consists of four plastic balls, measuring 1.5 inches in diameter, along with some plastic animal figures strung on a piece of elastic. The plastic balls and animal figures come in a variety of colors, such as purple, orange, red, blue, green, and yellow. There is a white plastic hook on each end for attaching the toy to a stroller, carriage, swing, or infant seat. The toy makes a rattle sound when shaken, and some of the plastic items are imprinted with the word, "China." The toys were packaged in a clear plastic bag with a multi-colored cardboard header labeled, "Baby Buzz Baby Stretch Mobile." A picture of a bee holding a rattle also appears on the header. Dollar Value and other discount stores sold the toys nationwide from December 1995 to December 1996 for about $1. Consumers should stop using the recalled toys immediately, and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers with questions about the recall can call Division Sales at (800) 621-8134, or write the company at 1311 Meacham Road, Itasca, Ill. 60143.
1-2-3 High Chair Recall/Repair by Playskool NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Change in Remedy. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles Originally issued January 13, 1997, Revised September 7, 2004 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-056 CPSC, Playskool Announce Recall to Repair Restraint Bar of the 1-2-3 High Chair WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Playskool of Pawtucket, R.I., is offering free replacement restraint bars for about 287,000 of its 1-2-3 High Chairs. The restraint bar can crack or break off, which may allow a child who is not secured with the high chair's seat belt to fall from the chair and be injured. Playskool has received hundreds of complaints of cracking and breaking restraint bars and 40 reports of injuries to children falling from the high chairs. Injuries primarily involve bumps and bruises; one child sustained a broken collarbone. The plastic restraint bar of the 1-2-3 High Chair is located at the center of the front of the seat. The high chair's tray attaches to the restraint bar. Only restraint bars on Playskool 1-2-3 High Chairs made between May 1995 and May 1996 require replacement. These high chairs have serial numbers between TX51321 and TX61442. The serial number is on a label on the back of the seat of the high chair. The Playskool 1-2-3 High Chair was available nationwide at discount juvenile product and department stores for about $65. As replacement components are no longer available, Playskool is offering consumers $15.00 compensation if they still own this high chair with the affected restraint bar. Call Playskool at 1-800-752-9755 or write to the company at PO Box 200, Pawtucket, RI 02862-0200. Consumers should not return the high chairs to retailers, but rather should discard or destroy it. CPSC and Playskool remind consumers that seat belts should always be fastened whenever a child is in any high chair.
Cabbage Patch Kids Snacktime Dolls Refund NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Change in Remedy Instructions and Phone Number. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued January 6, 1997, Revised May 9, 2005 Release #97-055 CONTACT CPSC: (301) 504-7908 CONTACT MATTEL: Lisa McKendall (310) 252-4592 Mattel and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Announce Voluntary Refund Program for Cabbage Patch Kids & Snacktime Kids Dolls WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to concerns related to its Cabbage Patch Kids® Snacktime Kids dolls, Mattel, Inc., with the cooperation of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), voluntarily announced today a refund program for all dolls purchased since the toy's introduction in the fall of 1996. Mattel will offer consumers a full cash refund of $40. At the same time, the company announced a withdrawal of the product from all retail shelves across the U.S., and will discontinue the distribution of the Snacktime Kids dolls. Mattel is taking this action following reports of people getting their hair and fingers caught in the mouths of the dolls. Neither Mattel's nor CPSC's testing of the product has identified a serious safety hazard associated with the dolls. "Nonetheless, we remain deeply concerned with the satisfaction of all our consumers and in maintaining their long-standing confidence in the safety and value of our toys," said Jill E. Barad, Mattel's chief executive officer. "Our job is to bring joy to children's lives. If any of our products are causing concerns, we are committed to responding in a responsible manner." "We recognize that these incidents can be upsetting to children and adults, and we are pleased with the actions being taken by Mattel," said CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. According to Mattel, since the birth of Cabbage Patch Kids in 1983, more than 80 million dolls have been "adopted" by children throughout the world, and their unique individual features and representation of all races and ethnicities has established the dolls as one of the most beloved toys in history. To date, approximately 500,000 Cabbage Patch Kids Snacktime Kids dolls have been sold to consumers. "This voluntary program serves as a reconfirmation of our commitment to the children who enjoy Cabbage Patch Kids and all the people who, for more than 50 years, have helped make our many toys the most popular in the world," said Barad. To receive a $40 refund, which includes estimated shipping and handling costs, consumers can call Mattel at (800) 524-8697, Mondays through Friday's from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.
Toy Water Batons Recall by Dairy Queen NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles January 6, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-054 CPSC and Dairy Queen Recall Toy Water Batons WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), International Dairy Queen Inc. (IDQ) of Minneapolis, Minn., is voluntarily recalling 150,000 toy water batons distributed with kids meals. When a child sucks or chews on the baton's end-cap, the cap can come off releasing small, plastic balls from inside the baton. The end-cap and the balls present a choking hazard to young children. IDQ has received eight reports of the baton's end-cap coming off. No injuries have been reported. The toy water baton is a clear plastic rod, measuring 9 inches long, with glitter and blue, purple, and green balls floating in water inside of the baton. There are purple caps on each end of the baton, and "Dairy Queen" is printed on the rod. The toy batons were distributed with kids meals at Dairy Queen stores nationwide from June through October 1996. Consumers should immediately take these toy batons away from young children, and return them to their local Dairy Queen store. Dairy Queen stores are offering consumers a free kids meal or ice cream sundae for each baton returned. For more information, consumers may call IDQ at 1-800-956-9565.
Fire Extinguishers Recalled by Bernzomatic NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Responding Firm Name, Location, Phone Number Change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued January 3, 1977, Revised May 11, 2004 Release # 77-001 CPSC Renews Recall Warning On Certain Outdated Fire Extinguishers WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 3) -- Bernzomatic Corp. (now a brand under Irwin Industrial, located in Wilmington, OH) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today renewed a recall notice to alert consumers that certain outdated fire extinguishers it produced may rupture. Formerly located in Rochester, N.Y., the company recalled its 1970 model FE18UL disposable foam fire extinguishers August 29, 1974, because of a possible safety hazard. A second recall notice was issued in November, 1975. As the solution in the devices ages the extinguisher tanks may corrode and there is an increased likelihood of rupture leading to possible injury. The company changed the formula in subsequent models. The units being recalled are red with white lettering: "Bernzometic Foam Fire Extinguisher." The dimensions are 2 7/8 inches in diameter by 7 l/2 inches in length. The model number of the recalled units, FE18UL, appears in the center of the rear label of the extinguishers with the date "1970" imprinted in the upper left hand corner. The devices were manufactured in 1970 and sold at retail for about $2.49 each during 1970 and 1971. The devices were sold in variety stores and chain grocery stores mostly in the Northeast United States. The company urges anyone who possesses a Bernzomatic 1970 model FE18UL unit to discharge the contents. A free replacement may be obtained by calling Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name) toll-free at 800-654-9011.
Model Trains Recall by MDK NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Ken Giles December 24, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-053 CPSC and MDK Inc. Recall Model Trains WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), MDK Inc. of Chapel Hill, N.C., is recalling about 20,000 model trains. If the train derails, the coupler coil spring could overheat creating a potential fire hazard. CPSC and MDK Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these model trains. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The trains involved in this recall are The Heavyweight line of O scale passenger cars, sold under the brand name K-LINE Electric Trains, which were produced from 1991 through 1995. These cars are 1:48 scale models of railroad passenger cars from the early 1900s and are designed to operate on a three-rail, O gauge track. The following types of cars are part of this train product line: coach, pullman, baggage, railway post office, diner, and observation car. All cars are individually boxed and include an end label listing the model name and number. The following cars were sold through hobby wholesalers and distributed to hobby and specialty retail stores nationwide: Railroad Name Car Numbers Baltimore & Ohio Railroad K10-0004, K10-0045 Erie-Lackawanna Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44251) K25-0001, K25-0002, K25-0098, K25-0316, K25-0469, K25-1813 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey K83-0072, K83-0073, K83-0080, K83-0093, K83-0094, K83-0095, K83-0096 Southern Railroad K86-0004, K86-0042 Southern Pacific Railroad K88-0112, K88-1918, K88-5124 Union Pacific Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44911) K91-0100, K91-0101, K91-0102, K91-0103, K91-0104, K91-0107 These additional cars were sold through the following listed outlets: Railroad Name Car Numbers Outlet Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44151) K15-0110, K15-0385, K15-0727, K15-0827, K15-0972, K15-2500 K-LINE Collectors Club (Chapel Hill, N.C.) Lackawanna Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44381) K38-0001, K38-0002, K38-0003, K38-0004, K38-0465, K38-1812 The Train Station (Mountain Lakes, N.J.) Toy Train Museum Cars K85-1884, K85-1896, K85-1870, K85-1899, K85-1877 Toy Train Museum (Strasburg, Pa.) Train Collectors Association Cars K85-1992, K85-1993 Train Collectors Association (Strasburg, Pa.) Texas & Pacific Railroad 6-Car Set (K-44891) K89-0718, K89-1018, K89-1109, K89-1402, K89-1658, K89-1818 Collectible Trains & Toys (Dallas, Texas) Pasadena Mutual Funds Car K99-1986 Pasadena Group of Mutual Fund (Greenwich, Conn.) The model trains were sold from late 1991 to the present for about $75 to 125 per car. Consumers should immediately stop operating the recalled cars, and call MDK Inc. at 800) 866-9986 for information on receiving a free repair. Consumers can write to K-LINE lectric Trains (MDK, Inc), P.O. Box 2831, Chapel Hill, N.C. 27515
Animated Santa Recalled by PriceCostco NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles December 23, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-052 CPSC and PriceCostco Recall Animated Santa WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), PriceCostco is voluntarily recalling its 30" Deluxe Animated Santa with Light and Music. There have been four reports of animated Santas overheating and melting, which may have been caused by a defective capacitor. PriceCostco is recalling this product to prevent further incidents. Approximately 66,263 animated Santas have been sold in Costco and Price Club US warehouses between August 5, 1996, and December 20, 1996, as item number 63404. This safety notice and recall applies only to the Deluxe 30" Animated Santa with Light and Music sold as item number 63404 and does not apply to any other animated Christmas items sold in PriceCostco warehouses. Consumers should unplug the Santa immediately and return it to any Costco or Price Club warehouse for a full refund. Consumers may contact PriceCostco at (800) 774-2678 if you have any questions.
Suspension Forks Recalled by Giant Bicycle NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles December 20, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-051 CPSC and Giant Bicycle Announce Suspension Fork Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Giant Bicycle Inc. of Rancho Dominguez, Calif., is announcing a voluntary recall of 8,500 CFM-3 mountain bike suspension forks. The fork crown can separate from the legs, causing riders to lose control of the mountain bike and fall. Giant has received nine reports of alleged injuries, including cuts, bruises, and broken bones. The silver steel forks have black decals, which read "GIANT ZORBERS" on the front of the suspension fork legs. Authorized Giant Bicycle dealers sold the forks as original equipment on 1993 model year Giant ALM-1, ATX-780, and CFM-3 mountain bikes nationwide from September 1992 to June 1994 for $650 to $1,000. Giant Bicycle dealers also sold the forks as replacement parts and after-market equipment during the same time period for up to $150. Consumers who own recalled forks should stop using their bicycle immediately and take it to any authorized Giant Bicycle dealer for a free inspection, and if necessary, free replacement of the suspension fork. Consumers should not attempt to repair the bicycles. For more information or for the location of the nearest Giant Bicycle dealer, consumers should call (800) 874-4268.
Koverall and Shortall Recall by Levi Strauss NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles December 20,1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-050 CPSC and Levi Strauss Announce Infant and Toddler Koverall and Shortall Recall WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Levi Strauss & Co. of San Francisco, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 3,000 Little Levi's Koveralls and Shortalls. The snap fasteners on the inside legs of these garments may separate, creating a potential choking risk to children. CPSC and Levi Strauss are not aware of any injuries involving these garments. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The recalled Little Levi's brand Koveralls and Shortalls styled for boys in sizes 12 to 24 months and 2T to 4T were all sold in indigo denim with product codes: 29028-2891 and 22028-2891 (Koveralls) and 22020-2891 and 29020-2891 (Shortalls). Koveralls is a youth version of traditional adult overalls and Shortalls is a short pant length version. Levi Strauss is also recalling infant sizes 12 to 24 months of its Levi's brand Girlswear Koveralls and Shortalls with product codes: 38806-0817 and 38806-0881 (Koveralls) and 39867-0881, 39867-0817, and 39867-9281 (Shortalls). The girls garments were sold in stonebleach denim, pink twill, or pink check fabric with an elastic back. The product codes are located on the back of the care label sewn in an inside seam of each garment. Retail stores sold the garments nationwide beginning in November 1996. Consumers should immediately stop using these garments and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers with questions about the recall may call Levi Strauss & Co. at 1-(800)USA-LEVI, or write to the company at: Levi's Plaza, P.O. Box 7215, San Francisco, Calif. 94120.