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All product recalls affecting Puerto Rico.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Puerto Rico in the distribution area.
Metal Bunk Beds Recall NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: AGA Warehouse and Datong Inc. are out of business. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Elaine Tyrrell Originally issued October 25, 1994; Revised July 10, 2001 (301) 504-6815 Release # 95-013 CPSC & Companies; Companies Recall Metal Bunk Beds Washington, DC - As part of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) ongoing investigation of tubular metal bunk beds, CPSC, in cooperation with the following companies, is recalling approximately 11,000 metal bunk beds. The upper level of the recalled beds can separate from the frame causing the bed to collapse and possibly injure an occupant in the bed. The following companies are participating in this recall: Company Model(s) Distribution Dates Distribution Location Distributed By AGA Warehouse Hayward, Calif. OUT OF BUSINESS 4701s twin/full (T/F) 12/90 - 12/92 Northern Calif. and Ore. Philip M. Bell Co. Loveland, Ohio (800) 837-0102 6005 T/F 6005-01 T/F 11/91 - 9-93 Ind., Ohio, Ky., Pa., Western N.Y. Mich., Ill. Datong Inc. Cerritos, Calif. OUT OF BUSINESS 74230 T/F 10/90 - 10/92 East Coast Home Line Industries, Philadelphia, Pa. and Kanes Furniture, Pinellas Park, Fla. Beekman Partners Inc. (800) 445-4318 500 T/F 520 T/F 1988 - 1991 Fla., Calif. Ariz.,Ill., Ky.,Ind., W. Va., San Francisco, Calif. Rent to Own (RTO), Deerfield, Ill. (Early in 1993, RTO voluntarily ceased distribution of all tubular metal bunk beds). Sunrise Importer Mableton, Ga. (800) 833-2436 2606 T/F 1991 - 8/93 Southeast United States Imported from Canada BB70 twin/twin (T/T) BB80 T/F 7/91 - 9/93 Nationwide B&D Sales Ltd., Tacoma, Wash. and United Furniture Warehouse Inc., Seattle, Wash. To determine whether you have a recalled bed, contact the store where the bed was purchased. Anyone owning one of the listed recalled models will receive a free reinforcement kit or replacement of the bed. To date, importers of metal bunk beds industry-wide have received over 500 complaints of defective bunk beds. CPSC has recalled approximately 317,000 metal bunk beds that present a similar hazard. Owners of all metal bunk beds should examine all eight mattress support corners of their beds for breaks or cracks in the paint or metal around the weld. IMMEDIATELY STOP USING DAMAGED OR BROKEN BEDS.
October 20, 1994 Release # 95-011 Washington, D.C. -- CPSC, Deb's Toys Inc. of Eatontown, N.J., is voluntarily recalling about 24,400 "Rattlin Rocking Rings," model number 63259, because they pose a choking risk for young children.The Rattlin Rocking Rings are plastic stacking toys that have a yellow and blue rocking base with a cone-shaped pole in the center and six graduated doughnut-shaped rings that stack on top of each other. Three of the rings are clear plastic with multi-colored beads inside.CPSC testing found that the beads can come out and may choke a young child. To date, neither Deb's Toys nor CPSC has received reports of accidents or injuries associated with the Rattlin Rocking Rings. Deb's Toys distributed the recalled toy, which sold for $6.99 each, from January 1993 through May 1994 at Toys 'R' Us and Small World stores nationwide. Consumers can identify the toy by the word "chicco ," which is painted in blue on two sides of the base, and the words "MADE IN CHINA" embossed underneath the base. The cardboard boxes in which the toys were packaged reads, in part, "chicco 'pronounced Kee-Ko' 8 pcs, 6-36m. . . . MADE IN CHINA FOR ARTSANA S.P.A. COMO-ITALY." Consumers should take the toy away from young children immediately and return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund. However, the distributor, Deb's Toys Inc., is out of business and cannot be contacted
October 17, 1994 Release # 95-008 Washington, D.C. - CPSC and the Lyons Group of Richardson, Texas, urge parents who own a 6-inch BARNEY doll with a red and white scarf and red Santa hat to remove a potential choking hazard from the doll. Parents should snip off the small white pom-pom from the tip of the hat to ensure that their child will not choke on the pom-pom.CPSC and the Lyons Group are issuing this safety warning after the company received seven reports of the pom-pom coming off of the hat on the doll. In one case, a child needed medical attention for choking on the pom-pom. The child fully recovered.About 594,000 videotapes and BARNEY dolls with a red and white scarf and red Santa hat were sold nationwide last holiday season in retail stores as the Barney Holiday Gift Pack. The Lyons Group sent notices to retailers, who still have the Santa Barney in stock, to remove the pom-pom before selling the dolls. The Lyons Group, which is also sending 800,000 notices of the choking hazard to members of the Barney Fan Club, removed pom- poms from the dolls for this year's holiday season.Consumers should remove the pom-pom from the doll immediately. The Lyons Group is asking consumers to attach the pom-pom to a 3" by 5" card, with their name and address also written on the card, and send it to the Lyons Group, P.O. Box 9523, Allen, TX 75002. Cards, which are received by Dec. 15, 1994, will be entered into a sweepstakes for a chance to win a 4-foot BARNEY or 4-foot Baby Bop doll. One of each doll, retail-valued at approximately $250, will be awarded in a random drawing on or about Dec. 16. More information and complete sweepstakes rules can be obtained by calling (800) 791-8093
October 11, 1994 Release # 95-004 Washington , D.C. - CPSC, Gracious Living Industries Inc., Ontario, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 95,300 white, molded plastic "Maui Plastic Patio Chairs" model 1025. When a person sits in one of these chairs placed on a polished or smooth surface, such as in a retail store or on a deck or patio, the chair's rear legs may spread beyond normal range, break, and cause the chair to collapse.Gracious Living is aware of at least 11 chair collapses that involved eleven known injuries to backs, shoulder, heads, and elbows. As a result of these accidents, Gracious Living discontinued the sale of this chair in June 1992.The Maui Plastic Patio Chairs model 1025 were sold in the United States from February 18, 1992 to June 15, 1992 through two retailers, F.W. Woolworth and Jamesway.Consumers owning this molded plastic chair should stop using the chair and contact Gracious Living's parts department at 1-800-465-5660. Gracious Living will arrange to have the chairs picked up free of charge and will reimburse consumers for their purchase price
Originally issued October 4, 1994; Revised March 3, 2011Release #95-003 CONTACT: Elaine Tyrrell(301) 504-6815 CPSC And Industry Redesign Products To Save Lives Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today a major cooperative effort with the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) to protect children from strangling in window covering pull cords. Window covering pull cords are associated with at least 140 deaths since 1981, a rate of one death per month.CPSC Chairman Ann Brown said, "This collaborative effort between CPSC and manufacturers, importers, and retailers of drapery and blind cords epitomizes how government and industry can work together to save lives. This program will change future production, and give consumers who have or will buy window coverings a way to prevent the needless deaths of children."CPSC, which investigated seven window covering cord strangulation deaths this year in Virginia, Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida, Mississippi, Nevada, and California, is currently investigating an eighth death in the state of Washington.Although some children were described as "entangled" or "wrapped" in window covering cords, most were found hanging in the loop of the cords. The younger victims, usually 8 to 23 months old, were in cribs, which were placed near window covering pull cords. While a few older children found the cords hanging near the floor, most of these victims, usually between 2 1/2 to 4 years old, became entangled and strangled in cords when they climbed onto furniture to look out windows.Although a few of the older children were previously seen playing with the cords, most of the accidents occurred when the children were alone in a room for only a short time. CPSC and the Window Covering Safety Council announced a three-part program that will eliminate the loop in most window blind cords by (1) improving the safety of existing window coverings, (2) modifying the future production of window coverings, and (3) implementing an educational campaign for consumers. Part one - Consumers who have window coverings in their homes should call the toll free number (800) 506-4636 immediately. The Window Covering Safety Council will either give the names of retail stores where consumers can pick up safety tassels now or send consumers safety tassels free-of-charge with installation instructions. Callers should be prepared to specify the number of individual tassels needed in their households. Part 2 - As of Jan. 1, 1995, two-corded window coverings sold in stores will be manufactured with a new safer design. Part 3 - The industry is committed to an educational campaign, which includes, brochures, posters for pediatricians offices and public health offices nationwide, and product alerts in window covering packaging. In the interim, consumers should look for brands already manufactured with a safer design or get the tassels from retailers when they purchase new blinds. Consumers should add the safety tassels to new blinds immediately upon installation. Parents should KEEP WINDOW COVERING CORDS AND CHAINS PERMANENTLY OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Never place a child's crib within reach of a window blind. Unless the cords can be completely removed from the child's reach, including when the child climbs on furniture, CPSC recommends against knotting or tying the cords together because this creates a new loop in which a child could become entangled. Upon receiving their replacement safety tassels, consumers should install them as follows: For two-corded HORIZONTAL BLINDS, Cut the cord above the tassel, remove the equalizer buckle, and add a new safety tassel at the end of each cord. For two-corded PLEATED OR CELLULAR SHADES: leave the cord ball or buckle near the top rail in place, cut the cord above the tassel and add a separate safety tassel at the end of each cord. When shades are raised, a loop will appear above the cord stop. Keep cord out of the reach of children. VERTICAL BLINDS, CONTINUOUS LOOP SYSTEMS, DRAPERY CORDS and CHAINS cannot be fixed with the replacement safety tassels but can be fixed with tie-down devices. Consumers should call CPSC at (800) 638-CPSC for information on modifying these types of window coverings
October 3, 1994 Release # 95-002 Washington, D.C. - CPSC, BernzOmatic, once located in Medina, New York (now a brand under Irwin Industrial, located in Wilmington, OH), is offering owners of model TX900 and TX900A propane heaters $250 to return the heaters to the company. Carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a defective burner in the heaters has killed at least 42 people, six of them since 1987.About 40,000 of these portable propane gas radiant heaters were sold for $30-35 nationwide from 1962 to 1966. Bernzomatic originally recalled the camping-style heaters in 1966 and reissued the recall in cooperation with CPSC in 1987. Bernzomatic repeated the recall in 1988, 1989, and 1990.About 7,000 of the recalled heaters are believed to still be in use. The heaters are often re-sold in yard sales and in second-hand stores.Recalled heaters have a green metal cabinet that is approximately 9 inches wide, 14 inches high, and 7 inches deep with room inside for one or two 14.1 ounce propane gas cylinders. "BernzOmatic" appears on the front of the heater and on the instructions inside the rear door. The model number TX900 or TX900A and the words "Portable Gas Radiant Heater" also appear on the instructions inside the rear door.Consumers should stop using the heater and call call Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name) toll-free at 800-654-9011 for instructions on how to return it for the $250 bounty
October 3, 1994 Release # 95-001 Washington, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gerber Products Company, Fremont, Mich., is voluntarily recalling approximately 10 million NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers manufactured between July 1, 1993 and June 30, 1994. No other Gerber pacifiers or products are involved in this recall. NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers distributed by hospitals are not involved in this recall.The recalled pacifiers may separate into pieces. The pieces could present a choking hazard to young children. Although there have been no injuries reported, the Gerber Company has received 26 consumer reports of these pacifiers separating into their component parts.The pacifiers have the name "NUK" embossed on the mouth shield of each product. The packages in which the recalled pacifiers were sold read, in part "Nipple made in Germany. Plastic parts molded and unit assembled in USA. Printed in USA. Distributed by Gerber Products Company...". Date codes on the back of the package range from 070193 (July 1, 1993) to 063094 (June 30, 1994). The pacifiers sold in retail stores nationwide. They were sold in single and multiple packs in a price range of $1.29 to $4.99. Gerber reports that the NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers involved in this recall have been removed from store shelves. NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers manufactured after June 30, 1994 were modified and are not affected by this recall and modified pacifiers are currently on store shelves. The packages of these newer pacifiers are date coded 070194 (July 1, 1994) and later and can also be identified by the word "NEW" on the front of the package. Any "NUK" pacifiers for which consumers do not have the packages in which the pacifiers were sold should be considered subject to this recall. Consumers are urged to take the recalled pacifiers away from young children immediately and throw them away. Call Gerber Products Company at its toll free number 1-800-4-Gerber to receive a free replacement pacifier. News media inquiries to Gerber should be directed to Nancy Lindner at 616/928-2774. Neither CPSC nor Gerber Products Company is aware of any injuries involving these pacifiers; this recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The potentially hazardous pacifiers were reported to CPSC by Gerber Products Company
September 30, 1994 Release # 94-131 Washington, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), KRUPS North America Inc. of Closter, N.J., is recalling the strainer baskets and lids on about 150,000 model number 290 "VitaMini" vegetable/fruit juice extractors. The strainer baskets on these juice extractors can break while in use, possibly injuring people nearby. To date, KRUPS has received 14 reports from across the country of shattering or ejecting lids resulting in at least six lacerations.The juice extractors were sold nationwide for about $40 to $75 each in department and specialty stores from June 1990 to May 1994.As of June 1, 1994, KRUPS began shipping modified "VitaMini" juice extractors to retailers. The modified juice extractors, which are re-designed to prevent the lid from shattering or ejecting, can be identified by the box labeled "NEW! IMPROVED STRAINER AND LID." Strainer baskets on the new units have the letters "ABS" and numerals embossed in the plastic of the basket. Washing the basket in extremely hot water, in a dishwasher, or with harsh detergent can result in the basket being so weakened that it can come apart during use.Consumers who purchased model number 290 "VitaMini" juice extractors before June 1, 1994, should immediately stop using the juice extractor, discard the strainer basket and lid, and call KRUPS consumer service at 1-800-526-5377 for free delivery of a modified strainer basket and lid
September 22, 1994 Release # 94-138 Washington, D.C. - CPSC is working with R.J. Reynolds of Winston- Salem, N.C., which recalled yesterday about two million "Camel Metal Match" cigarette lighters that were distributed as part of a cigarette promotion. Use of the lighter may result in burn injuries. To date, R.J. Reynolds has received 17 reports from across the country that adults have been burned while using the lighters.R. J. Reynolds began distribution of the lighters, which were supplied by CVA Inc., in August. The lighter, which resembles a small pack of Camel cigarettes, was included for free with two packs of Camel cigarettes in a blue box labelled "Camel Metal Match. Free with 2-Pack Purchase." Consumers should stop using the lighter immediately, dispose of it, or return any and all of their free lighters to R.J. Reynolds for one $5 incentive refund check. To receive information about the recall, instructions for returning the lighters, and to order a postage paid mailer, call R.J. Reynolds at 1-800-887-4579 between 7 a.m. and midnight EST, Monday through Friday, or write Camel Metal Match Returns, P.O. Box 7, Winston-Salem, N.C. 27102
September 20, 1994 Release # 94-134 Washington, D.C. - CPSC, USA Maxam Inc. (also known to the public as Wholesale World and Tech Mart) of Houston, Texas, is recalling approximately 230,000 extension cords. CPSC testing found that the cords' wires are undersized and the cords' plugs were put together improperly. The cords can catch fire or shock people. The recalled extension cords were sold in the following lengths: 6 feet (item PA-1106S), 9 feet (item PA-1109S), 12 feet (item PA-1112S), 15 feet (item PA-1115S), 18 feet (item PA-1118S), and 21 feet (item PA-1121S). The cords were sold in cardboard sleeves labeled in part, "***ft. *** TECH man *** MADE IN CHINA *** Extension Cord ***125V***." The individual cords, which may be labeled "Made in China," were distributed to retail stores in New York, Florida, Georgia, California, and Indiana from June 1992 through January 12, 1994.Consumers should stop using these dangerous extension cords and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. Consumers may also return them by mail for a refund to USA Maxam Inc., 5610 Savoy, Houston, TX 77036.Neither CPSC or USA Maxam Inc. is aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. However, a recent CPSC study estimated that in 1987, 4,600 fires involving extension cords resulted in 70 deaths, 230 injuries, and $42 million in property damage. These extension cords were discovered during routine CPSC marketplace surveillance
September 19, 1994 Release # 94-130 Washington, D.C. - CPSC, Sub-Zero Freezer Company Inc. of Madison, Wis., is voluntarily offering to inspect, at no cost, its model 550 and 501 built-in refrigerators/freezers installed between June 1989 and December 1992. Sub-Zero has received 30 reports of the refrigerators/freezers tipping forward, including nine injuries. All tipovers involved refrigerators that were not properly secured during installation.Approximately 61,000 refrigerators/freezers were sold nationwide through kitchen dealers and appliance stores. The refrigerators are 36 inches wide and have the name "Sub- Zero" on the ventilating grill. The model number is on a sticker attached to the interior door frame. Model 501 refrigerators/freezers have a single door with the motor on the bottom. Model 550 refrigerator/freezers have a drawer on the bottom, a single refrigerator door, and the motor on top. These refrigerators/freezers are intended to be secured to the wall studs or to solidly-attached surrounding cabinets. Failure to secure them during installation could allow the refrigerators/freezers to fall forward during use.Owners of Models 501 and 550 refrigerators/freezers installed between June 1989 and December 1992 should contact Sub-Zero to arrange for a free installation inspection and, if necessary, correction by calling 1-800-222-7820, or by sending their name, address, and telephone number to: Sub- Zero Freezer Company Inc., P.O. Box 44130, Madison, WI 53744-4130
September 19, 1994 Release # 94-128 Washington, D.C. - CPSC and Melitta North American of Cherry Hill, N.J., urge coffeemaker owners to check whether they own a Melitta Aroma Brew Automatic Drip coffeemaker model ACM-10S. About 175,000 of these coffeemakers sold before Feb. 1, 1994, have hinges on the plastic filter holders that may have been damaged in transit or in use. Damaged hinges can cause the coffeemaker filter holder to unexpectedly swing open during brewing, spilling hot water or coffee on people nearby.CPSC first learned of this problem from a complaint and coffeemaker sent by Ralph Nader. Subsequently, the commission learned that at least three people have been burned from spilled liquid. Melitta and CPSC worked in close cooperation to evaluate these incidents and identify appropriate remedies.The coffeemakers, available for between $30 and $35, were sold nationwide in retail stores from April 1993 through January 1994.The coffeemakers involved are white, black, teal, or plum with the word "Melitta" printed on the filter holder and "MODEL ACM-10S" engraved on the bottom of the coffeemaker.Melitta reports that some Aroma Brew's filter holder hinges may have been damaged in transit or by a consumer improperly opening the filter holder when cleaning or disposing of coffeegrounds. Consumers are asked to immediately stop using these coffeemakers and call Melitta at 1-888-635-4882. Melitta will send a free filter holder replacement kit and installation instructions. The new filter holder contains a stronger hinge pin to keep the filter securely in place during brewing.All Melitta coffeemakers sold after February 1, 1994, which have redesigned filter cone hinge pins, are not involved in the replacement program
November 25, 1994 Release # 95-027 WASHINGTON, D.C. CPSC, Gilbert Manufacturing Co. of Long Island City, N.Y., is warning owners of its Christmas and seasonal light sets that a potential fire or shock hazard may result if both latches of the fuseholder are not securely fastened. Consumers should close the fuseholder completely before plugging in the lightstring or decorative outfit. After replacing the fuse, consumers should make sure that the cord is flat in its cover channel before closing and latching the fuseholder at both ends.CPSC received two complaints that the light sets sparked and the plastic fuseholder or the plastic cord charred or melted. To date, no injuries have been reported.Since 1980, Gilbert has manufactured more than 40 million light sets with the fuseholder sold nationally by a variety of major and own label distributors including, NOMA International Inc., Beacon Electric, General Electric Co., Leco Electric, Lidco Co., Markee Products, J. Hofert Co., R.C. Co., and Plastic Assembly Corp. The name of the distributor and in some cases the Gilbert name are printed on the carton of the UL-listed light sets that currently retail for up to $8.99 at retail stores such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Kmart Corp. and other discount, chain, department, and specialty stores. The light set strings, which can have from 7 to 50 bulbs, generally have 25 of the larger C7 or C9 (candelabra or intermediate size) bulbs. Most sets have a connector that allows the consumer to attach an additional string to the lights. Miniature light sets are not involved.Each light set has a plastic Gilbert fuseholder that is 1.5-inches long, located on each light set cord about 4 to 6 inches from the plug. Each fuseholder has a hinged cover that fits over the line cord and a bottom part holding the 7 amp fuse. When properly assembled on the cord, the fuseholder cover is fastened to the bottom part by snapping down the two latches at each end of the fuseholder. One side of the fuseholder says "Fuseholder, 125V., 7A. Max, Pat Pend" and the other side says "Push Under Tabs To Open." The flap inside the fuseholder is labeled "E73208." A 7-amp fuse is included in each fuseholder.Gilbert has placed a warning label on each of its light sets manufactured and sold this year advising consumers of a risk of fire or shock if the fuseholder is not fully closed or if the cord is not lying flat in its channel. Gilbert is also offering the warning label information free to consumers who have previously purchased the light sets. Consumers are urged to call the Gilbert Manufacturing Co. toll free at (800) 899-7584 to receive one or more free labels as a permanent reminder of the potential fire hazard and for information about the light sets. Gilbert will mail consumers their requested labels with instructions for safer lights. Consumers should not use their light sets until they review the instructions on the label
September 15, 1994 Release # 94-127 Washington, D.C. - CPSC, Char-Broil, of Columbus, Ga., announced today a program to give the owners of "Char- Broil" brand charcoal water smokers a kit to close a hole in the charcoal pan to reduce a fire risk.Approximately 80,000 Char-Broil brand charcoal water smokers sold since March 1993 have a hole in the exposed charcoal pan that can cause a fire if used over a flammable surface like a wooden deck. Using the smoker over a flammable surface is contrary to current warnings and instructions included with the Char-Broil smokers.According to Char-Broil, charcoal water smokers typically have a charcoal pan with a hole in it, a water pan in the middle of the unit, and grills for food above the water pan and at the top. CPSC is investigating other brands of charcoal water smokers that may present a similar risk of fire. CPSC views all charcoal water smokers, which have exposed charcoal pans with holes that may allow coals to fall out, as a potential fire risk. CPSC, which is seeking corrective actions against other companies, will announce these actions at the earliest possible time.Although Char-Broil has not received any reports of fires with its smokers to date, the company is participating in this program to help prevent the possibility of fires.The recalled smokers were sold nationwide in mass market retail stores for $29 to $39 each. They are red or black and are labeled "Char-Broil H2O Smoker" on the body of the smoker. Only smokers that have a hole in the exposed charcoal pan are involved in this recall. Call Char-Broil at (800) 241-8981 for a free kit to close the hole in the pan. To help reduce the risk of fire even after the hole is closed, do not operate the charcoal water smoker on or near flammable surfaces
September 7, 1994 Release # 94-124 Washington, D.C. - CPSC, Shure Products Inc., Chicago, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 14,000 "Kaleidoscope Art" sets, item number 820. Although the product box is labelled "non-toxic" and "conforms to ASTM D4236" (an art products safety labeling standard), these crayons contain enough lead to present a lead poisoning risk to young children, who might eat or chew on the crayons. Shure Products and Toys R Us, the retailer for these sets, initiated the recall after CPSC laboratory analyses showed that Kaleidoscope Art set crayons had high levels of lead.The Kaleidoscope Art sets, which Shure imported from China, were sold nationwide by Toys R Us from January through August 1994. Each Kaleidoscope Art set contains a box of eight crayons, six sheets of "line art" (geometric shapes to color), and a six-inch kaleidoscope. Children are supposed to color in the geometric shapes and view them through the kaleidoscope. The set is labeled "Ages 4 and up."Consumers who own the Kaleidoscope Art sets should take them away from children immediately and return them to Toys R Us for a refund. For more information about this recall, consumers may call Shure Products Inc., at (312) 633-9002 or write to Richard Moy, consumer affairs manager, Shure Products Inc., 1474 West Hubbard Street, Chicago, Ill. 60622.CPSC learned of the problem with these art sets from the New York State Consumer Protection Board. According to Shure, they had the products tested in the appropriate manner at a private testing laboratory. Although CPSC and Shure Products Inc. have not received any reports of injuries or illnesses involving Kaleidoscope Art sets, the commission and the company are conducting this recall to prevent the possibility of injury or illness
September 1, 1994 Release # 94-121 Washington, DC -- Over a million Brinkmann and COOK'N CA'JUN charcoal water smokers distributed before 1993 have a hole in the charcoal pan that can, if used over a flammable surface like a wooden deck, cause a fire. Use over flammable surfaces is contrary to current warnings and instructions included with the smokers. In addition, some of the metal brackets holding the water pan and/or grills on these models have sharp edges that can cause cuts.Today, Brinkmann, in cooperation with CPSC, announced a program to give the owners of these charcoal water smokers a kit to close the hole and reduce the fire risk. The kit also contains redesigned brackets to replace the original ones. Although Brinkmann is fully confident in the safety and quality of its charcoal water smokers, Brinkmann is voluntarily participating in this program to help prevent injuries.According to Brinkmann, charcoal water smokers typically have a charcoal pan with a hole in it, a water pan in the middle of the unit, and grills for food on the water pan and at the top. CPSC is investigating other brands of charcoal water smokers that may present a similar risk of fire. CPSC views all charcoal water smokers that use exposed charcoal pans with holes that may allow coals to fall out of the smoker as a potential fire risk, and is seeking corrective action from other companies. CPSC will announce these actions at the earliest possible time.Since 1974, Brinkmann has recorded approximately 10 claims of fires allegedly involving holes in the charcoal pan of Brinkmann smokers and 6 claims of cuts allegedly involving the brackets of these charcoal water smokers.To identify your charcoal water smoker, look for the names "Brinkmann" or "COOK'N CA'JUN" on the top or body of the smoker. If either of these names appear, check the charcoal pan at the bottom. If the pan has a hole, it is involved in this program. Only Brinkmann and COOK'N CA'JUN water smokers manufactured before 1993 are included in this program. These water smokers were sold by major retailers nationwide. Charcoal water smokers manufactured after 1993, as well as Brinkmann Gourmet and COOK'N CA'JUN S-80, and Brinkmann and COOK'N CA'JUN electric or gas water smokers are NOT included in this program. These other models either don't have exposed charcoal pans or have no charcoal pan at all. Call Brinkmann at (800) 675-5301 for a free modification kit to close the hole in the pan and to replace the sharp brackets.Even after the hole is closed, to help reduce the risk of fire, do not operate the charcoal water smoker on or near flammable surfaces
August 30, 1994 Release # 94-122 Washington, D.C.- - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Stihl Inc. of Virginia Beach, Va., announced today that it is recalling approximately 50,000 series 1127 chain saws, models 029 and 039 that were manufactured from March 7, 1993 to August 12, 1994. An ignition ground wire on the saw can wear out prematurely and possibly start a fire if it comes into contact with gasoline from the saw or with any other combustible substance. Stihl Inc. has received at least one report of a fire associated with a worn-out ignition ground wire.The recalled saws were sold nationally through Stihl servicing dealers for about $400 to $450 each. The recalled model 029 saws have serial numbers 226585676 and above, and the recalled model 039 saws have serial numbers 227236569 and above. The model number is located on the top of the chain saw's engine and the serial numbers are stamped onto the chain saw's housing, adjacent to the exhaust/muffler opening.Owners of the recalled Stihl model 029 or 039 chain saws should discontinue using the saws immediately and return them to an authorized Stihl dealer for a free repair of the ground wire. Stihl dealers will also put a sticker near the gas cap explaining the correct tightening procedures. For more information, consumers can contact their authorized Stihl dealer or call Stihl. Inc. at (800) GO-STIHL (800 467-8445)
August 24, 1994 Release # 94-120 Washington, DC -- CPSC, HydraBaths Inc. of Santa Ana, Calif., is voluntarily recalling its model 20313X, 2031XX, and 203 whirlpool bath suction covers. These covers were manufactured prior to implementation of voluntary industry standards in 1985. HydraBaths estimates that there are about 40,000 whirlpool baths in use that have these suction covers.Whirlpool baths typically have one or two suction openings to draw in and circulate water. Each suction opening should have a cover designed to protect against entrapment of the bather's body parts and hair due to high suction forces. The recalled suction covers, which were not designed with such protection, may entangle a bather's hair into the openings, causing the bather's head to be held under water, which can result in drowning.To date, HydraBaths received two reports of hair entrapments. One entrapment resulted in a drowning death and the other was a near drowning.The recalled round covers can be identified by holes that are slotted or square shaped and larger than 1/8 inch. There are no visible markings on the covers that tell which model they are. The recalled covers were sold nationally before 1985 (as a component on whirlpool baths) to bathtub manufacturers, plumbing wholesalers, and distributors.HydraBaths suction covers distributed after 1985 are not involved in this recall and can be identified by the visible markings HB-8, SC-1, or SC-4 on the cover and by holes that are circular and 1/8 inch or smaller.HydraBaths and CPSC advise consumers to stop using whirlpools with the recalled suction covers. HydraBaths will send you free replacement suction covers. Call them at (714) 556-9133 or write them at HydraBaths, Recall Department, 2100 S. Fairview, Santa Ana, CA 92704 for free replacement suction covers.Consumers who are unsure if they have a recalled suction cover can call or write HydraBaths to help make that determination. Consumers who write should enclose a photo of their cover
August 16, 1994 Release # 94-118 Washington, D.C.- - CPSC, Best Wear, Inc. of Los Angeles, Calif., is voluntarily recalling three styles of girls romper garment sets that have necklaces with a stuffed doll hanging at the end. The stuffed doll necklaces present a potential strangulation hazard when hung around the necks of crib-aged children. Because the necklaces are about 26 inches long, they could become caught on an object or twisted while around a child's neck and choke the child.The style numbers 84P1580 and 84P1581 rompers are labeled "Baby's 2 PCS ROMPER/DOLL" and the style number 84P1065 rompers are labeled "Baby's 3 PCS BLOUSE/ROMPER/DOLL". The stuffed dolls are about 3 inches tall and 2 inches wide. The dolls are made from the same material as the romper. The necklace is made of string.The rompers with stuffed doll necklaces sold for about $7.50 in retail stores in Los Angeles, Calif., between April 5, 1994 and April 12, 1994. Approximately 1,200 rompers were sold. The rompers were imported from the Philippines. The U.S. Customs office in Los Angeles alerted CPSC to the importation of these potentially hazardous products.Consumers with these rompers should immediately cut the necklaces off of the stuffed dolls, and take the rompers and dolls back to the stores where they were purchased for a refund of the purchase price. However, the distributor, Best Wear, is out of business and cannot be contacted.Neither CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving these products. However, CPSC records show strangulation incidents with similar children's products such as pacifiers on cords. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury or death
August 12, 1994 Release # 94-117 Washington, D.C. - CPSC announced today the stop sale and recall of a popular style of rayon and rayon/cotton blend skirt, which is dangerously flammable. The skirts, which present a serious risk of burn injuries, do not meet the applicable flammability regulation under the Flammable Fabrics Act. In fact, these skirts burn faster than newspaper.The skirts, which were made in India and sold nationwide, are long, full, summer and fall-line skirts with elastic waist bands, which may also have drawstrings at the waist. They have two layers - with a sheer chiffon layer of fabric over a gauze lining and are made of rayon or rayon (viscose) cotton blends. The skirts sold between $6 and $80 at large chain stores and small boutiques nationwide, including those listed below.CPSC is working with a number of importers and retailers to recall more than a quarter of a million of these skirts. In addition, the U.S. Customs Service will work with CPSC to stop the skirts at the point of entry into the United States. CPSC surveyed over 200 retail stores in 17 major U.S. cities to test for the fire hazard. CPSC URGES CONSUMERS TO IMMEDIATELY STOP WEARING THESE FLAMMABLE SKIRTS AND BRING THEM BACK TO THE RETAILERS. Your retailer should know whether the skirt is a part of this recall and should then provide a refund or credit. Although CPSC has not received any reports of injuries from these skirts to date, the agency is issuing this safety notice and recalling the skirts to prevent injuries from these dangerous products.Any skirt with the following description and general label information may be involved in this recall.Description: - Two layer skirt with sheer chiffon fabric over a gauze lining. - Long, full, summer and fall-line skirts with elastic waist bands, which may also have drawstrings at the waist. General Label Information: - Made in India. - 100 percent rayon or 65 percent rayon (viscose)/35 percent cotton. - Hand Wash Separately in Cold Water or Dry Clean Only. The following major retailers are cooperating with CPSC and agreed to participate in this recall:Abraham and Strauss BasementAmes Ladies WearAnnie SezBealls Outlet StoresBurlington Coat FactoryCost PlusDayton'sFilenes Basement GantosHudson'sJean NicoleLoehmann'sMarianneMarshallsMarshall Field'sOne PriceRossT.J. MaxxNumerous other retailers will also be participating in this recall. CPSC found the following brand names on the labels of the skirts that failed the flammability test:2 Kool LookAnn Simone Carla Freeman Casual Designs by RAVIAExclusifF b iFounded 1976 D II K by K.V. M.Giallo NapoliGold StarLaGebi-Masone IIMinti ModePapillonPhoolRenukaShort CircuitSteed Import Inc.Vile ParleXessoriumZero ZeroOther brand names may also be involved in this recall. Consumers who have questions about the recall can call the CPSC toll-free hotline at (800) 638-CPSC (2772)