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All product recalls affecting Rhode Island.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Rhode Island in the distribution area.
Night Lights Recalled by Danara NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 18, 1980 Release # 80-015 55,000 Night Lights Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 18, 1980) -- Approximately 55,000 plastic night lights that may pose a shock hazard to consumers are being recalled by their importer, Danara International, Ltd., of South Hackensack, New Jersey. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The night lights were manufactured in a square shape with a white plastic cover depicting popular cartoon and nursery- rhyme characters. The cover can be rotated so that the picture can be turned to an upright position regardless of how the light is plugged into an electrical outlet. Some of the lights were manufactured with insufficient amounts of glue, permitting the front cover to detach from the light assembly and thereby exposing the interior electrical wiring. No deaths or injuries, however, have been reported to the company or to CPSC. The recalled lights bear the following inscription embossed on the orange plastic backing: "Danara International, Ltd., 1/4 watt, 115 volts." An estimated 46,000 of the lights have been sold nationwide since March, 1978 by Sears, Roebuck and Co. for $1.50 each. The Sears models feature a picture of Winnie the Pooh and Tigger. The remaining 9,000 lights feature other characters and were sold in a variety of retail outlets for approximately the same price. Consumers should return the lights to the place of purchase for a full cash refund.
Heat Guns Recalled By Top Flite Models NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 17, 1980 Release # 80-014 Heat Guns Containing Asbestos Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 17, 1980) -- A program to repair approximately 20,000 "heat guns" used by model airplane hobbyists is being conducted by the manufacturer, Top Flite Models, Inc., of Chicago, Illinois. The heat guns, which contain asbestos heat shields in the barrel, emit asbestos fibers during use. The repair program is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Hobbyists use the "T/F Monokote" brand heat guns to shrink and mold the outer covering of model airplanes. Although the product resembles and functions like a hand-held hair dryer, it cannot be used to dry hair because the gun emits air heated as high as 400 degrees Farenheit. Manufactured between June, 1974 and December, 1977, the heat guns have been sold nationwide in hobby shops and other specialty retail stores for approximately $23 each. The manufacturer has used heat shields made from the mineral "mica" in all of its heat guns produced since 1977. Top Flite Models has agreed to replace the asbestos heat shields with mica liners at no cost to consumers. In order to receive free repairs, consumers should mail their heat guns to Top Flite Models, Inc., 1901 N. Narragansett Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60639. The firm will reimburse consumers for postage costs.
Children's Outdoor Water Toy Corrected by Wham-O NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 10, 1980 Release # 80-007 Wham-O To Correct Potential Hazard In Children's Outdoor Water Toy WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 10)-- A program to correct more than 100,000 outdoor "Fun Fountain" water toys which may cause serious injuries to children is being conducted by the Wham-O Mfg. Co. of San Gabriel, California. The firm, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, voluntarily will supply free corrective water flow control valve inserts for its "Fun Fountain" toys produced from 1977 through November, 1979. The toy consists of a clown hat and head which attaches onto the end of a garden hose so that the hat rises in the air when water flows through the clown's head. Children may be inclined to peer into the water outlet and the stream of water could cause serious eye injuries, especially in communities with high water pressure. CPSC so far has been informed of two consumer complaints since June, 1979, involving a six-year-old boy and a seven-year- old boy who suffered eye injuries when struck at close distance by water emitted from the "Fun Fountain" toys. The Wham-O "Fun Fountain" water toys were sold nationwide in toy stores and variety stores for approximately $10.00 each. The model number of the toy, #237, is imprinted on the toy's package. According to the company, the potential hazard has been corrected on all "Fun Fountain" toys manufactured since December, 1979 when the toys began to be produced with a water flow control valve to decrease and control the water flow. Such new editions are readily identifiable since they are equipped with a blue hose connector (the older design has a red connector) at the base of the clown head. The words "Important Notice" and "Safety Check List" also are imprinted on the new toy cartons. If the hose connector is red but contains a blue insert which is clearly visible, then it also has been corrected and is equipped with a water flow control valve. To correct the potential hazard in "Fun Fountain" toys manufactured before December, 1979, parents are urged to go to the place of purchase to receive a free water flow control valve insert, or they may contact Wham-O directly to receive a free valve insert (Customer Service Dept. 7, 835 East El Monte Street, San Gabriel, California, 91778). Consumers also may telephone Wham-O toll-free at 800/423-4174 (in California, call collect at 213/287-9681). The water flow control valve snaps easily into the hose connector and once installed will remain firmly within the connector, according to the company.
Cribs Repaired by Bassett The terms of the agreement require Bassett to undertake an extensive remedial action program and to pay a $175,000 civil penalty. The firm estimates that the cost of the program, including the civil penalty, could be as high as $1 million. Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., of Bassett, Virginia, is the manufacturer of the "Candlelite" and "Mandalay" style cribs which reported have caused six infant deaths since 1977. CPSC staff believes that the crib design is such that infants can trap their heads between a corner post and the headboard (or footboard) and strangle as they stand on the crib mattress. The agreement pertains to the "Mandalay" crib models 5126-505, 5621-505 and 5225-505, and to "Candlelite" models 5028-505, 5028-510, 5127-505 and 5127-510. The model numbers can be found on an adhesive label affixed to the inside of the headboard below the mattress level. "Mandalay" cribs manufactured February, 1974, to October, 1976, sold nationwide for approximately $100 to $125 in retail stores. The "Candlelite" cribs sold for approximately $100 , produced from December, 1975, to mid-October, 1977. Consumers who own one of these cribs which has not yet been modified immediately should contact Bassett to obtain a free repair kit or instructions for eliminating the hazard. Consumers can contact Bassett at its toll-free number l-800-336-5223. (In Virginia, collect telephone call to Bassett at (703) 629-7511, extension 340). In its proposed complaint against Bassett, CPSC staff alleged that the two crib styles pose a substantial risk of strangulation injuries or death to infants. The "Mandalay" cribs could present a strangulation hazard but failed to report to CPSC staff. In entering into the consent agreement, Bassett does not admit that it had an obligation to report, that reportable information exists, or that the product presented a substantial hazard. Bassett had been undertaking corrective action since February, 1978 to locate and modify the potentially hazardous cribs. Despite its efforts, approximately 4,700 "Mandalay" style cribs (out of an estimated 5,800 produced) and about 400 "Candlelite" cribs (of 1,654 produced) still may not have been modified to eliminate the hazard. The central part of the consent agreement requires Bassett to take the unprecedented step of sending hazard notifications by direct mail to all parents who have had children within the previous 21 months. This mailing is expected to include more than four million parents of infants and young children. In addition, Bassett will purchase advertising space in "TV Guide" and "Family Circle" magazines, in which they will run l/2-page advertisements warning consumers of the potential crib hazard. These magazines have a combined total readership of more than 27 million people. As an added incentive to consumers, Bassett will pay a $5 cash award to anyone who identifies the location of an unmodified crib, once its repair has been verified. Bassett further has agreed to mail posters which describe the crib hazard and the needed safety modification to all obstetricians and gynecologists practicing in the U.S., as well as to all pediatric and maternity clinics, for display in their offices. As part of its earlier voluntary corrective action with CPSC, Bassett already has distributed posters to approximately 25,000 pediatricians and to some medical clinics. In addition, Bassett agreed to pay a civil penalty of $175,000 settlement of CPSC staff's allegation that the firm failed promptly to report the alleged defect in the cribs. The Commission will vote whether to give final approval to the agreement following a seven-day public comment period which opens on February 14, when the agreement is published in the Federal Register
Electric Heaters Recalled by Titan NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 11, 1980 Release # 80-004 Faulty Portable Electric Heaters Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 11) -- Approximately 1,000 heavy-duty, model 267C, portable electric heaters which may pose a shock hazard to consumers are being recalled by their manufacturer, the Titan Sales Corporation, of Kansas City, Missouri. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Some of the heaters were improperly wired during manufacture, allowing the heaters' metal casing to become electrified. No injuries have been reported to the manufacturer or the Commission. Consumers should return the heaters to the place of purchase for free replacement or repair. Intended for use in homes, classrooms and workshops, the heaters were manufactured with a baked enamel finish of tan and brown. The company name "Titan" appears above the control knob on the front of the heaters, and model number 267C is displayed on the back. The 220-240 volt heaters were manufactured in July, 1979, and distributed from July through early November, 1979. They were sold nationwide in hardware stores and other retail outlets for approximately $88.95. The firm successfully has recalled from distributors approximately 70 % of the 3,800 potentially defective heaters it produced. The faulty units bear the following manufacturing date codes on a label on the bottom: 267-904-716 267-904-717 267-904-718 267-904-719 267-904-727 267-904-720 267-904-723 267-904-724 267-904-725 267-904-726
February 11, 1980 Release # 80-003 Trolley-Ride Toys To Be Repaired WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 11) -- A program to repair approximately 35,000 "Fun Ride Trolley Ride" toys which may seriously injure children is being conducted by the toy's manufacturer, Davis-Grabowski, Inc., of Miami, Florida. The company is conducting the voluntary program in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The toy features four components: the trolley, which consists of two pulley-like grooved wheels encased within a plastic housing which supports two plastic handles; a 35-foot cable of either a single wire or seven intertwined strands of wire; and two clamps which serve to fasten the suspended cable around two tree trunks or posts. Once the cable is suspended, a child can propel himself along the cable by gripping the trolley's two handles. Although the toy is advertised as being capable of supporting an adult's weight, CPSC staff has been informed of nine incidents in which the cable broke under the weight of children and one incident in which it snapped under an adult's weight. These accidents reportedly resulted in concussions to a 9-year-old girl, and a 42-year-old woman, back injuries to a 10-year-old girl, and minor cuts and bruises to two other children. The trolley-ride toys were manufactured between January, 1976, and June, 1979. They have sold nationwide for approximately $15.00 in retail stores and are packaged in boxes labeled with the model number 30/1000. The manufacturer has agreed to mail consumers a free stranded cable to replace the single-wire cable, along with additional clamps to replace those sold with the toy. Anyone whose toy already includes the stranded cable will receive two additional clamps. The stranded cable and clamps can be obtained by writing to: Davis-Grabowski, Inc., P.O. Box 381594, 74 N.E. 74th Street, Miami, Florida, 33138. Consumers should include their names and addresses and specify the type of cable sold with their toy (whether single or stranded wire). Anyone requiring additional information about this program should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772
November 29, 1979 Release # 79-068 Infant's exercising Toy Recalled WASHINGTON, D. C. (November 29)-- Approximately 1,000 toys which may pose a hazard to infants are being recalled by the toy's retailer, the F.A.O. Schwarz Company, of New York City. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The toy, know as an infant crib exerciser, consists of a red elastic cord strung with colored wooden beads and rings. The 17-inch elastic cord poses a potential strangulation hazard to infants who could become entangled in the cord. The toy was imported from J. Schowanek, a manufacturer in West Germany, and was sold in F.A.O. Schwarz stores for $7.95 between July, 1976 and January, 1979. The foreign manufacturer stated that it has stopped producing this toy. Consumers who purchased the crib exerciser from F.A.O. Schearz can receive a full refund by returning the toy to any F.A.O. Schwarz store with proof-of-purchase. F.A.O. Schwarz told CPSC that other firms have imported and sold the toy but that Schearz does not know the names of these companies. CPSC urges consumers to contact its toll-free Hotline at (800) 638-2772 if they know of other importers or retailers of the hazardous exercises
Bassett Baby Cribs Warning Against Potential Strangulations by continued use of two dangerous types of baby cribs. This announcement involves cribs manufactured by Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., of Bassett, Virginia cribs requiring modification include the "Mandalaya" and "Candlelite" style beds. They were designed in such a way that infants can trap their heads between a corner post and the headboard (or footboard), and strangle. CPSC received six reports of such deaths among infants since September, 1977. CPSC and Bassett announced a voluntary program to modify the cribs in May, 1978. Only 1,000 of the "Mandalay" cribs reportedly have been modified. Approximately 1,200 of the 1,654 Candlelite cribs have been repaired. Bassett agreed to produce thousands of large wall posters and to have them distributed to pediatricians nationwide for display in physician's waiting rooms. The Mandalay cribs were produced with a bamboo-like motif, and include models 5126-505 and 5621-505 (painted yellow) and 5225-505 (painted white). The model numbers can be found on an adhesive label affixed to the inside of the headboard below the mattress level. The cribs were manufactured from February, 1974, through October, 1976, and sold for approximately $100 to $125 in retail stores nationwide. Parents should remove all four finials (the decorative knobs on top of each cornerpost) by unscrewing them. Consumers then should report that they have removed the finials by contacting the retailer from which the crib was purchased or the nearest Bassett crib dealer can be found by checking the "Yellow Pages" section of the telephone directory under the listing "Furniture--Children's," or by placing a collect call to Bassett at 703/629-7511, extension 340. The Candlelite style cribs were manufactured with a traditional colonial design in models 5028-505 and 5028-510 (stained in maple) and 5127-505 and 5127-510 (stained in pine). These model numbers also are printed on a label attached to the inside of the headboard below the mattress. The cribs sold for approximately $100 in retail stores nationwide, and were manufactured from December, 1975, to mid-October, 1977. Consumers who have not had their Candlelite cribs modified should contact the tore where it was purchased to arrange for free installation of modifying parts to close the openings in the headboards and footboards. Parents arrange to have cribs repaired by contacting their nearest Bassett retailer, obtained form the telephone directory or by calling Basett at the number listed above. Until the Candlelite cribs have been repaired, parents should push one end of the crib against a wall and move a high piece of furniture (such as a chest of drawers) against the other end. Other Cribs CPSC staff is trying to determine whether baby cribs other than those manufactured by Bassett are designed with headboard and footboard openings which my pose potential safety hazards to infants.
Stuffed Toy Mobiles Recalled by R. Dakin NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 21, 1979 Release # 79-065 Stuffed Toy Mobiles Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 21) -- Approximately 422,000 stuffed mobile toys which may pose a strangulation hazard to infants are being recalled by their importer, R. Dakin & Company, of San Francisco. The recall applies to eight different types of stuffed animal mobiles which are intended to be suspended from ceilings by means of three elastic cords. Last month an 11-month old baby girl strangled when she became entangled in the elastic cords suspending one of the toys from her crib. The toys being recalled include: Hummbug Bee model 34-3645 Embo Elephant model 34-1972 Jolly Polly Parrot model 34-3462 Stanley Stork model 34-3653 Jingle Frog model 34-3661 Lucky Ladybug model 34-3662 Duckswoop model 34-3666 Jingle Lamb model 34-3690 Each toy is covered with plush fabric and contains a musical chime device. The model numbers appear on a tag attached to the animal's ear. The toys were imported from South Korea and distributed in the U.S. from January, 1977, through October, 1979. They sold nationwide for approximately $7 each in toy stores and other retail stores. Parents should return the toys to the stores where they were purchased for a full refund. Consumers who wish to keep the toy should cut off the three elastic cords in order to eliminate the potential safety hazard. Anyone requiring additional information about this recall may contact Mr. Roger J. Burrill, Vice President, R. Dakin & Company, 499 Point San Bruno Boulevard, South San Francisco, California 94080, toll-free telephone 800/227-6598.
Air Damper Systems Repaired by Chim-A-Lator NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 6, 1979 Release # 79-063 Repair Program Set For Energy Saving Device WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov.6)-- The Chim-A-Lator Company, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, has announced a voluntary program to modify approximately 15,000 air damper systems for fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. The announcement was made in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Excessively hot chimney temperatures could cause the air damper to close unexpectedly and force smoke or flames back into the room. According to the company, such a heat build-up is caused primarily by overfueling fireplaces, burning dangerous materials, or failing to have the chimney cleaned. Since 1977, the firm has received a report of one minor burn injury, which occurred when the damper closed accidentally. The damper systems, which have been manufactured since 1969, are marketed as energy-saving devices to reduce heat loss from air drawn up fireplace and stove chimneys when not in use. The company is offering a device, which consumers can install themselves, which will ensure that the damper maintains an adequate opening even in extreme temperatures. Consumers can obtain this free device by writing to the Chim- A-Lator Company, 8824 Wentworth Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55420, telephone: 612/884-7274. The devices will be available after December 1, but consumers should write to the company immediately.
Hair Dryers Corrected by Manufacturers NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 1979 Release # 79-061 Commission Approves Corrective Plans For 26 Manufacturers Of Asbestos Hair Dryer WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 1) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has voted unanimously to accept the voluntary corrective action plans of 26 manufacturers and importers of hand-held hair dryers made with asbestos. The 26 companies account for nearly 10 per cent of those hand- held hair dryers manufactured with asbestos since 1969. The other 90 per cent were distributed by 11 manufacturers and private labelers whose corrective actions were approved by the Commission last May. Among the 26 manufacturers and private labelers, eight have agreed to repair their hair dryers: three have agreed to refund the purchase price or replace the dryers with asbestos-free dryers: and 15 have agreed to exchange their dryers for refunds, new asbestos- free dryers or other products manufactured or imported by the firm. Nearly 100 different models and styles of hair dryers are covered under these corrective action plans. Since May, 1979, CPSC has ordered 146 corporations to submit sworn information regarding the use of asbestos in their hair dryers. The 26 companies listed below informed CPSC that the heat shields in their dryers contained asbestos (but that no other dryer parts exposed to the dryers' airstream contained asbestos). None of the remaining 120 firms reported having manufactured hair dryers containing asbestos. The companies which have agreed to repair or accept returns of their hair dryers include: Afro Products, Inc., of Ottuma, Iowa; Allied Stores Marketing Corp., of New York City; Arrow Trading Co., New York City; B&E Sales Co., of Detroit, Michigan; Brother International Corp., of Piscataway, New Jersey; Formac, Inc., of City of Industry, California; Hartman Products of Hawthorne, California; W.P. Hemenway Co., of Portland, Oregon; Hairaoka New York Inc., of New York City; Hitachi Sales Corp. of Compton, California; Interpur (a division of Dart Industries) of Orlando, Florida; and M.S.S. Direct Ltd., of Hauppauge, New York. Also included are: Market Importing Services Inc., of New York City; New York Merchandise Co. of New York City.; Pace Setter of Burbank, California: Panasonic Co. of Secaucus, New Jersey; Pearlduck Inc., of Garden City, New York; Sanyei New York Corp. of New York City; Sanyo Electric Inc., of Compton, California; Save-Way Industries Inc. of Hialeah, Florida; Swank Co., Inc., of New York City; T.G. & Y. Stores Co. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Wakefern Food Corp. of Elizabeth, New Jersey; Windsor Industries, Inc., of Melville, New York; F.W. Woolworth Co. of New York City; and Zayre Corp. of Framingham, Massachusetts. Many of these companies maintain that hair dryers containing asbestos have not been proven to present a health hazard. CPSC staffers have compiled a list providing the specific corrective actions which the 26 individual firms have agreed to perform. The list can be obtained free by writing to: Hair Dryers, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C., 20207. Consumers also can obtain specific information about the plans by contacting CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Blow-Gun Toys Recalled by Western NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 26, 1979 Release # 79-060 Wisconsin Manufacturer Agrees To Recall 180,300 Blow-Gun Toys WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 26) -- Approximately 180,000 "Soft Shot Star Launcher" blow-gun toys which may pose a choking hazard to children are being recalled voluntarily by their manufacturer, the Western Publishing Company, of Racine, Wisconsin. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The toy consists of a white plastic tube and mouthpiece which measure approximately 29 inches in overall length. It is sold with three small cardboard targets and three orange darts molded of soft vinyl, each approximately three inches long. The company is recalling the toys based on consumer reports since July, 1979, of three children who choked on the toy's mouthpiece. In each instance, the mouthpiece reportedly separated from the plastic tube and lodged in the child's throat. No critical injury or illness resulted from any of these incidents, according to the company. A fourth similar incident was reported to CPSC and is being investigated by Commission staff. The company reported to CPSC that, despite the potential hazard, the toy meets or exceeds all existing voluntary product safety standards. Model number 4990 is printed on the toy's package, although the toy itself and its components do not display any distinguishing identification. Manufactured and distributed earlier this year, the toy sold for approximately $2 in toy stores and other variety retail stores nationwide. The manufacturer has directed all retailers and distributors of the toys to stop sales. Parents should return the toy to the retailer from which it was purchased to receive a cash refund. Consumers also can obtain refunds (including reimbursement for postage costs) by mailing the toys to: Western Publishing Company, 1220 Mound Avenue, Racine, Wisconsin, 53404, Attention: Customer Relations Director.
Energy-Saving Devices Warned NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 15, 1979 Release # 79-058 Consumers Warned On Dangerous Energy-Saving Devices WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 15) -- Citing the critical need for consumers to save energy safely, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers to stop using two types of faulty energy-saving devices which regulate home thermostats. Approximately 20,000 "Automatic Day/Night" thermostat controls were manufactured by the Fuel Sentry Corporation of Mt. Vernon, New York. An additional 19,500 "Home Energy Saver" thermostat controls were manufactured by the Fuel Gard Corporation of Glastonbury, Connecticut. Both types of potentially hazardous devices consist of a small rectangular heater and an electric timer. The heaters were designed to be mounted on the wall beneath the thermostat and connected to the electrical timer which plugs into a household socket. At predesignated times, the heater warms the thermostat, causing it to shut off the home furnace. The heaters were manufactured with integral carbon resistors which may overheat and start fires. The defective heaters have caused at least 17 instances of sparking or flaming since July, 1977. In two instances, the adhesive backing of the heater melted, causing the heater to fall to the floor onto combustible materials. No injuries have been reported. CPSC staff believes the timers can be used safely with other appliances. The thermostat controls were sold nationwide in hardware and department stores for retail prices ranging from $20 to $25 Some of the Fuel Gard units were given away for promotional purposes. Details Of Fuel Sentry Alert The potentially hazardous Fuel Sentry heaters were manufactured between September, 1976 and August, 1977, and between November, 1977 and May, 1978. They are labeled "Activator" on the front and display a date code on the back which falls within the following ranges: 396 through 526; 017 through 327; 437 through 527; and 018 through 218. In addition, only "Activators" containing a brown-colored carbon resistor (visible through the key-hole slot in the back) are potentially hazardous. Units with resistors of another color are believed to be safe, even though they may carry one of the date codes listed above. Fuel Sentry announced a recall of their product in 1978, but fewer than half the units were returned by consumers. The company since has filed for bankruptcy and is no longer repairing the devices. Owners of affected Fuel Sentry thermostat controls should return the products to their retailers, many of whom are offering refunds or replacements. Owners of Fuel Sentry units who cannot obtain a refund or replacement unit from retailers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772. Fuel Gard Alert The Fuel Gard heaters were manufactured with a simulated wood finish and were labeled "Fuel Gard" in raised lettering. CPSC staff is working to develop a corrective program with Fuel Gard to enable consumers to return defective units; details will be announced in a subsequent press release. Save Energy Safely CPSC staff warns consumers that energy-conservation devices which are improperly installed, designed or manufactured can result not only in fire hazards, but also in carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shocks or explosions. CPSC staff will continue to monitor the marketplace to detect defective products which should be recalled, but urges consumers to be alert to the potential safety problems of devices such as furnace vent dampers, flue gas recirculators, clothes dryer exhaust diverters and other modifications to existing energy equipment and appliances.
Giggle Stick Toys Recalled by CBS Toys NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 3, 1979 Release # 79-056 4 Million "Giggle Stick" Toys Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 3) -- CBS Toys, a division of CBS, Inc., of New York City, is voluntarily recalling four million units of a toy which may pose a choking hazard to children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced. The toy, called the Gabriel "Giggle Stick", consists of a hollow, yellow plastic tube which, when shaken, produces noises by means of a metal reed fastened inside an interior plastic cylinder. Young children can remove the red end-caps of the toy, exposing the interior plastic cylinder which houses the small reed inside. Some reeds have fallen out of those "Giggle Sticks" designed with open-end caps. Since March, 1979, three children have choked on the reeds, according to CBS Toys. No injuries have resulted. The "Giggle Sticks" have been manufactured since December, 1978, and sold in variety stores nationwide for less than $2. The toys are advertised as suitable for children ages 3 and older. Parents should return the toys to their retailers for a refund or a new "Giggle Stick" which has been redesigned to eliminate the safety hazard. Consumers also can receive a refund or a new "Giggle Stick" by mailing their used ones to: Gabriel Industries, Longmeadow Road, P.O. Box 980, Hagerstown, Maryland, 21740. In retail stores, consumers can identify a redesigned "Giggle Stick" by looking for the words, "New, Improved" on the red cardboard flag wrapped around the toy.
Power Mowers Modified by Sunbeam NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-052 Power Mowers To Be Modified WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct.1) -- The Sunbeam Outdoor Co., has instituted a program to modify approximately 8,900 electric lawn mowers which may pose electrical shock hazards to users. The program is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Sunbeam Outdoor Company, of Manning, South Carolina, is a division of the Sunbeam Corporation. The program applies only to models 3227 and 3228 "Sunbeam" electrical mowers. They have been sold nationwide since 1978 at a retail price of approximately $140. The mowers feature handles which can be reversed over the top of the motor enabling consumers to change mowing directions without turning around the entire machine. As the position of the handle is changed, the power cord may get caught between the handle and a bracket which mounts the handle to the mower. This could cause sufficient abrasion to expose electrical wires. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should not use these mowers until they have installed a small metal part to eliminate the potential hazard. The part can be obtained free of charge, along with installation instructions, by contacting: Department 91B, Sunbeam Outdoor Company, Division of Sunbeam Corporation, P.O. Box 430, Kingstree Highway East, Manning, South Caroling 29102, telephone 803/435-8444. To verify model numbers, consumers may contact CPSC's toll- free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Toy Telephones Recalled by Durham NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-054 Cords On Toy Telephones Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- Durham Industries, Inc., of New York City is recalling the detachable connector cords sold with approximately 97,000 toy telephone sets, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. The cord connects two battery-operated toy telephones, enabling children to talk to each other. The two-prong plugs at each end of the cord so closely resemble genuine electrical plugs that children may try to force them into household sockets, thereby receiving severe shocks or burns, according to CPSC staff. An 8-year-old girl was burned earlier this year when she was able to force one of the plugs into a wall electrical outlet. The connector cord is sold as part of the model 7028 "Holly Hobbie" dial/intercom toy telephone set. Available in pink and blue, the toy phones are equipped with functional intercoms, signal lights and buzzers. The words "Holly Hobbie" are printed on the center dial of each toy phone. The set has been sold exclusively by the K-Mart Corporation for approximately $9.95. Durham has imported the toy from Yugoslavia since 1977. Parents should return the cords to Durham Industries, Inc., 41 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10010, to receive free replacement cords which have been redesigned.
Valves On Gas Grills Recalled by King Seeley Thermos NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-053 Valves On Gas Grills Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1 ) -- Thousands of valves on portable gas grills which may pose a fire hazard are being recalled by their manufacturer, the King Seeley Thermos Company, in Prospect, Heights, Illinois. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Due to the manufacturer's use of a defective supply of adhesive, some of the 23,383 grills may have faulty valves which leak propane gas. No injuries have been reported. The grills measure 13 by 23 inches. They have been manufactured since January, 1979 and contain a small one-pound propane cylinder. They have been sold nationwide under the "Structo" brand name in hardware stores and other retail outlets for approximately $40 to $60. The valves are on models 7962, 7963, 7964, 7965 and 7966. Model 7964 was sold exclusively by K-Mart retail outlets. The model numbers are listed in the instruction manual which accompanied the product, but not on the product itself. Consumers can obtain a free replacement gas valve by placing a collect call to the company at 815/235-8852. To verify model numbers, consumers also may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Spear Guns Recalled by AMF NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-055 Defective Spear Guns Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- More than 1,800 underwater spear guns which can fire accidentally at users or bystanders are being recalled voluntarily by AMF, Inc., of Des Moines, Iowa. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. AMF, Inc., is a manufacturer and importer of recreational and sporting equipment. A defect in the guns' "trigger shock-line retainers" can cause unintentional firing if the shock-lines are wrapped too tightly around the retainer, or if the taut lines and gun barrel are held together. (The "trigger shock-line retainer" is a small mechanism which holds the lines in place.) The company has received four complaints involving unintentional firing of the weapons since July, 1979. No injuries have been reported. The recall affects "AMF Mares Underwater Spear Guns" sold under the following brand names and model numbers: Model Numbers Brand Names 5300 Long Tom 6334108 Supersten 5302 Sharp Shooter 5304 Californian 5306 Frontiersman 5308 Shortie 5310 Snub Nose 6333503 Competizione 6334009 Sten 6333008 Medisten 6331006 Ministen 6330005 Miniministen Consumers should return the guns to the dealers from whom they were purchased for free modification. Anyone requiring additional information about this recall should place a collect call to Sea Quest, Inc., Mares (a distributor of AMF Mares products in Solana Beach, California) at 714/481-8877. Consumers may verify model numbers by contacting CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
Scuba Regulators Recalled by Under Sea NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 1979 Release # 79-051 Scuba Regulators Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 1) -- Second-stage scuba regulators which may pose a drowning hazard to divers are being recalled by their manufacturer, Under Sea Industries, Inc., in Compton, California. A second-stage regulator consists of the diver's mouthpiece and the "purge," which is a button used to clear water from the mouthpiece. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. An integral exhaust valve, which enables the diver to exhale, may dislodge from its proper position if the purge is depressed and the diver's tongue is blocking the mouthpiece. This can cause the regulator to flood. The unintentional application of silicon lubricant to the valve or valve seat during servicing is believed to cause the valve displacement. Approximately 800 of these regulators have been sold in diving stores nationwide at retail prices ranging from $90 to $150. The company previously notified its dealers and some consumers about the recall, but poor response has prompted this additional bulletin. The recall applies to the "SCUBAPRO" model 11-108-000 second-stage regulator and to model 12-103-000 and 12-010-000 regulator systems, which include the potentially defective valve. The model numbers appear on the packaging carton and the warranty card. Divers who have purchased these regulators or had them serviced between September 12, 1978, and April, 1979, should return them to any authorized "SCUBAPRO" dealer for free repairs. Dealers are listed in the "Yellow Pages" section of the telephone directory under the heading, "Divers' Equipment and Supplies." To verify model numbers, consumers may contact CPSC's toll- free Hotline 800/638-2772.
Commercial Hair Dryers Corrected by Bonat NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 20, 1979 Release # 79-048 Commission Accepts Asbestos Correction Plan From Commercial Hair Dryer Manufacturer WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 20) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the manufacturer of the "Rocket Blower", a commercial hair dryer used nationwide in beauty salons patronized primarily by blacks, today announced a voluntary program for the removal and replacement of asbestos heat shields in the hair dryers. The correction program has been accepted by the Commission as adequate. The manufacturer, Bonat Inc., of West Patterson, New Jersey, estimates that since 1972 approximately 1,000 of the special purpose hair dryers have been sold to distributors for resale to beauty salons. The company estimates that perhaps 500 individual beauty salons currently may be using the "Rocket Blower", predominantly in major urban areas. Bonat and CPSC will be instructing Bonat distributors and their beauty salon customers to return the dryers for retrofitting. Bonat has informed the Commission that it believes these hair dryers do not present a health hazard. Although Bonat therefore feels it is not legally obligated to undertake the correction program, it has agreed to do so voluntarily. Distributors and their beauty salon operators can identify the "Rocket Blower" by its name on the label, which reads "Bonat Blower Dryer." The "Rocket Blower" models requiring removal of the asbestos heat shield are models B-10, B-11 and B-14. No other Bonat dryers have been manufactured with asbestos heat shields. The replacement program is scheduled to begin in mid-October when the company will have completed its retrofitting arrangements. Beauty salon operators are being advised to write the Bonat company at 250 Lackawanna Ave., West Patterson, New Jersey 07424, to receive details of the retrofit program. Salon operators also may contact CPSC at the agency's toll-free Hotline, 800/638-2772, to initiate participation in the program.