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All product recalls affecting Washington.
Includes nationwide recalls (tagged “Nationwide”) and recalls with Washington in the distribution area.
Smurf and Snoopy Ceiling Fans Replacement by Lindsley NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 22, 1988 Release # 88-044 Lindsley Undertakes Replacement Program for Ceiling Fans WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Lindsley Home Decorating Centers, Miami Lakes, Florida announces a notification and replacement program involving the "SMURF" and "SNOOPY" models of ceiling fans sold through Lindsley retail stores. These ceiling fans have a defective mounting bracket assembly, which could cause the ceiling fan to fall from its support. Serious injury could result to anyone who is struck by one of these falling ceiling fans. There have been three incidents of these ceiling fans falling, with two people receiving minor injuries. Lindsley sold 1,500 units each of the "SMURF" and "SNOOPY" models of these 48", 4-blade reversible ceiling fans through its 43 Lindsley retail stores located in the southern part of Florida. Sales were made from the latter part of 1984 through 1985. These ceiling fans sold for a retail price ranging from $20 to $80. These ceiling fans are white in color and have the "SNOOPY" and "SMURF" characters on the ceiling fans. During the latter part of 1985, Lindsley initiated a program to replace the defective mounting brackets on these ceiling fans. Lindsley Home Decorating Centers is now undertaking a new replacement program to replace both the original defective mounting bracket and the replacement bracket previously offered by Lindsley. This program includes not only the replacement of the mounting bracket but also the nylon ball that fits into the bracket. Any consumer who has purchased one of these ceiling fans from a Lindsley store should contact Linsley Home Decorating Centers, Miami Lakes, Florida, at 305-364-4006 or toll-free l-800-999-7173 for a free replacement kit. The kit will include a new mounting bracket and hanging ball as well as instructions for removal of the original components and installation of the replacement components.
Dry Suit AC Valve Recalled by DUI NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 20, 1988 Release # 88-042 DUI Dry Suit AC Valve Recalled WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Diving Unlimited International, Inc. (DUI) of San Diego, California is announcing a recall of its AC (air control) dry suit valve because the valve malfunctions. The DUI AC valve is used on SCUBA diving dry suits. The DUI AC valve deflates or inflates the diving dry suit to allow the diver to equalize air pressure while ascending or descending in the water by pressing on the valve. The AC valve differs from the standard 2-valve system commonly used in dry suits, where air intake and outflow are controlled by two separate valves. The Consumer Product Safety Commission is aware of incidents involving 16 divers which are associated with AC valve malfunction. The valve may free-flow causing air to fill the dry suit resulting in the diver rising rapidly to the surface or failing to provide sufficient air to maintain buoyancy. The possibility exists of serious injury and/or death, especially if appropriate emergency procedures are not followed. Owners of dry suits with AC valves attached should immediately stop using the dry suits. DUI asks that all divers return their suits (at DUI's expense) and have the AC valve replaced at no charge. All dry suits returned to DUI will be tested and DUI will fix any leaks in the suit (except for seals) at no additional charge. Further, if the diver wishes to upgrade the valve system, this will be done at the manufacturer's cost of the valves only. Divers who have one of these AC valves attached to their dry suits should contact DUI on their toll free number 800-327- 8439 to obtain valve replacement instructions and a FREE dry suit check-up. If owners of these suits have any questions regarding the recall or identifying the dry suit valves in question, please contact the firm at the number listed above or the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054. SCUBA Diving Dry Suit Valve is Recalled Do you have this Diving Unlimited International (DUI) air control (AC) dry suit valve attached to your dry suit?
Electric Mouse Traps Recalled by Hanover House NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 15, 1988 Release # 88-040 Hanover House Voluntarily Recalls Electric Mouse Traps WASHINGTON, D.C. --In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Hanover House Industries, Inc. 340 Poplar Street, Hanover, Pennsylvania today announced the voluntary recall of approximately 24,000 Electric Mouse Traps. Although no incidents of electric shock or injuries have been reported, under certain circumstances these units might pose a possible risk of electric shock hazard. The Commission learned of the problem from the State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection. The product was imported from Hong Kong by Etna Products Co., New York, New York and was distributed to catalog companies including Hanover House. The Electric Mouse Traps are plastic cylinders with coils inside connected to 110 volt household electric supply. The primary source of a possible electrical shock hazard is associated with the bait container. The bait container is situated on the frame directly above the electrodes which are exposed and may be accessible when the bait container is removed to insert the bait. These units were sold nationwide by catalog for $9.95 each. Consumers should stop the use of these items immediately. Hanover House is providing a $10 credit to mousetrap purchasers for the return of the device to Hanover House. The credit can be applied to the purchase price of merchandise from Hanover House. Consumers will also be refunded the cost of postage. If consumers have any questions, they can call Hanover House directly at 800-621-5800. Electric Mousetrap Recalled For your safety, immediately unplug any of these electric mousetraps and do not use them.
Convertible Ladder-Chair Recalled by Maxton/Cox Furniture NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 15, 1988 Release # 88-041 Maxton/Cox Furniture Recalls Convertible Ladder-Chair WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Maxton Industries/Cox Furniture, Inc. of Maxton, N.C., today announced a voluntary recall of the firm's wooden, convertible ladder/chair. The ladder/chair was sold by three catalog companies; Swiss Colony, J.C. Penney and Spiegel. The Commission is aware of 24 incidents in which either the steps of the ladder/chair split or the hinges pulled away from the wood causing users to fall or stumble. The 24 incidents involved 13 injuries which included a broken elbow, several cuts and multiple bruises. Another problem is the inherent instability of the product when climbing the ladder. The step placement and arrangement, and the structural design can cause the user to lose balance and fall. Approximately, 4,500 wooden, convertible ladder/chairs were distributed and sold nationwide through Swiss Colony, J.C. Penney and Spiegel catalog companies from October, 1984 through July, 1987. The catalog companies' reference numbers are as follows: Spiegel's catalogue no: #N7910 7376T Swiss Colony's catalogue no: #3047 J.C. Penney's catalogue no: #783-2736 The ladder/chair involved in this recall has a warning label on the top step of the ladder. A picture of the ladder chair and the warning label is attached for easy identification. Consumers should remove these ladder/chairs from use immediately and return them by mail or in person to the retailer where purchased for a refund. Consumers will be reimbursed for mailing cost in addition to the retail price of the item. For further information concerning this recall, consumers can call Maxton Industries/Cox Furniture, Inc. collect at l-919-844-3501. Convertible Ladder/Chair Recalled
Black and Decker Weed Trimmers Recall/Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 1988 Release # 88-039 Recall Warning For Black and Decker Weed Trimmers Washington, D.C. -- More than half a million -Black and Decker weed trimmers that present a potential electrocution hazard are still in consumers' hands, despite an earlier recall in November, 1987, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. A lower than expected return rate has caused the Commission to take the unusual step of re-issuing the warning. The recall includes approximately 500,000 Black and Decker Model 82209 (Type 1 and 2) and Model 82210 (Type 1 and 2) Bump- Feed Grass/Weed String Trimmers. Due to improper assembly, the wiring in some of these units may be cut by the end of the handle tube, resulting in an electric shock hazard. This hazard can occur while the units are being operated or when they are simply plugged in but not in use. Four consumers were reportedly shocked in separate incidents in 1986 and 1987, when they grabbed the metal handle tube of their string trimmers. Though none of these incidents was fatal, the Commission staff believes that a defective trimmer would present a severe electric shock or an electrocution hazard. These Black and Decker brand string trimmers have been sold since October, 1985, by a variety of retailers for about $24.00 to $29.00. The affected trimmers can be identified by a label decal located near the top of the handle, which states "No. 82209 Grass/Weed Trimmer, Type 1 or Type 2" or "No. 82210 Grass/Weed Trimmer, Type 1 or Type 2" and "Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., Easton, MD 21601 U.S.A." Also, the motor housings of the 82209 and 82210 units are labeled 9" cut and 10" cut, respectively. Owners who identify their trimmers as recalled should stop using them immediately and return them to a Black & Decker Service Center listed in the Yellow Pages under (Tool- Electric). Owners who cannot take their trimmers to a Black and Decker Service Center will be able to obtain further assistance by calling Black & Decker toll-free on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, at 800-533-4395, or they may write to Black 61 Decker (U.S.) Inc., P.O. Box 857, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030, Attention: User Services. Black & Decker will inspect all string trimmers subject to this recall, and will repair or replace, at no cost to the owner, any trimmer which is found to have been incorrectly assembled. The Black and Decker contacts for the news media are Barbara Lucas at 301-583-2980 and John Atwood at 301-583-2939. 500,000 Black and Decker Grass/Weed String Trimmers Recalled Do you have either of these Black and Decker grass/weed trimmers? Due to improper assembly, the wiring in some of these units may be cut by the end of the handle tube, resulting in a severe electric shock hazard. Electric shock could occur if the user grabs the metal handle tube.
Stuffed Bear Recalled by Toycraft NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 6, 1988 Release # 88-035 Toycraft Recalls Stuffed Bear WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Toycraft Industries of Brooklyn, New York is voluntarily recalling a stuffed teddy bear. The eyes and nose come off the bear and are small parts which present a serious choking hazard. A 2 year old child died of asphyxiation when the plastic nose from the teddy bear lodged at the base of her larynx. The teddy bears are 26 inches tall and 9 inches wide across the chest and come in assorted colors. A sewn-in tag on the bears identifies the manufacturer as "Toycraft Industries, Inc., Brooklyn, New York," and further states, "Stuffed Toys for Tots and Teens." Consumers should take the bear away from young children. A full refund will be offered at the store where the bear was purchased. Approximately 9,000 of the bears were sold during this past year for around $6.00. Anyone wishing additional information may call Toycraft at (718) 788-2900.
Propane Grills Modification Kits by Sunbeam Leisure NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 2, 1988 Release # 88-034 Sunbeam Leisure Products Providing Modification Kits For Windows on Propane Grills WASHINGTON -- Following reports of spontaneous breakage of glass windows of 1988 Sunbeam Leisure outdoor propane gas grills, the Sunbeam Leisure Products Company of Neosho, Missouri is initiating a modification program to remount the glass windows to prevent breakage. In a voluntary modification program undertaken in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Sunbeam Leisure said that, because of the way the window was mounted, the glass may spontaneously break from the heat of the grill. Incidents of consumers reporting minor injuries from broken glass are being investigated. A limited number of the suspect grills were sold in the latter part of last year, but most have been sold in 1968. An estimated 320,000 grills are currently in consumer use including Yardmaster models sold by Channel Home Centers and Sears Kenmore models 10663, 10684, 10783 and 10883. Consumers who bought 1988 models of Sunbeam Leisure, Yardmaster and the above Kenmore propane gas grills with a glass window will be supplied with a free modification kit and instructions on remounting the window. The installation can be easily performed by the consumer without special tools. Owners of any of the above brand name 1988 model grills with glass windows should check their model number and have it ready when calling Sunbeam Leisure toll-free at l-800-458-8407 for a free modification kit; Missouri residents should call l- 800-641-2100. Telephones will be staffed Monday through Friday between 7 am and 5 pm, CDT.
Avanti Strollers Repair Program by Perego NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 31, 1988 Release # 88-033 Perego Offers Repair for Avanti Strollers Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Peg Perego U.S.A., Inc., Fort Wayne, Indiana, announces a voluntary consumer repair program for its "Avanti" model stroller. In at least 13 reported instances an infant seated in the stroller has put his mouth over a metal wire guide that runs parallel to the stroller's arm rest. The child's chin has been caught in the one-inch space between the wire guide and the arm rest, resulting in lacerations to the mouth, and in some cases, loosening of teeth or loss of teeth. The Perego "Avanti" stroller sold for approximately $99 nationwide. 11,344 units were distributed by the firm between January 1, 1986 and December 15, 1986. Peg Perego U.S.A., Inc. will provide a free repair kit that will close the gap where children's chins have been caught. The repair kit will not interfere with the stroller's reversible handle feature. To obtain the repair kit and installation instructions, consumers should call Peg Perego toll-free at l-800-824-4000. Consumers may also contact the firm by writing to Peg Perego, U.S.A., Inc., 3625 Independence Drive, Fort Wayne, Indiana. The name "Avanti" was used on two stroller models. Only strollers with wire guides and the name "Avanti"' on the front bumper are affected by this repair program.
Sweet Home Shoe House And Ice Cream Doll Recalled by Wisconsin Toy NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 26, 1988 Release # 89-032 Playset And Doll Recalled Because Of Possible Choking Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Product Safety Commission, the Wisconsin Toy Company, Inc. of New York is voluntarily recalling its "Sweet Home Shoe House Playset" and "Ice Cream Doll" because they have small parts and may present a choking hazard to young children. Consumers should take the items away from children and return them to the retailer where purchased for a full refund. The "Sweet Home Shoe House Playset" is a plastic house in the shape of a workboot, measuring 11 by 7 by 6 inches, containing is pieces of dolls and doll furniture. The playsets are labeled "1984 JUMBOS INTERNATIONAL (HONG KONG) CO. NO. 698", and 6,500 were sold nationally for about $5.00. "Ice Cream Doll" is a soft doll about 12 inches tall, with a plastic ice cream cone suspended from a string around the neck of the doll, with a sewn-in label marked "ICE CREAM DOLL, MADE IN HONG KONG." $3.00. CPSC and Wisconsin Toy said they know of no injuries involved with the toys. U.S. Customs agents and CPSC inspectors discovered the small parts violation of the Ice Cream Doll during "Operation Toyland" import surveillance at Newark, New Jersey last fall. Anyone wishing additional information may call Wisconsin at (201) 279-9718.
Circus America Playpens Modification by C&T International NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 23, 1988 Release # 88-030 Playpens to be Modified Because of Hazards to Children WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, C&T International, Inc., Moonachie, New Jersey, today announced it is voluntarily making available to consumers a free modification kit for its mesh-sided playpen with drop sides, model number 585, "Circus America." Some of the playpens fail to warn users of a potential suffocation hazard if an infant is left in the playpen with one of the sides down. All of the playpens present a finger crushing hazard at two locations in the drop side locking system. In addition, when the playpens are folded for storage, it is possible for a child to remove the plastic feet which may present a choking hazard. The Commission is aware of a number of deaths and injuries involving mesh-sided playpens with drop sides produced by firms other than C&T. Eleven infants are known to have died when left unattended in playpens with a drop side down. These children suffocated when they rolled into a mesh pocket created by the lowered drop side. The Commission is also aware of several incidents in which children's fingers were crushed when they attempted to climb into a playpen grasping the folded drop side locking system. The playpens involved in these incidents were not manufactured by C&T; however, some of the playpens sold by C&T are similar to the playpens involved in the incidents and present the same hazards. The affected collapsible mesh-sided playpens may be identified by a self-adhesive label on the floorboard which states: Art. 585, CIRCUS AMERICA EX. The playpens measure 39 by 39 by 33 inches and contain a removable foam floor pad. The product has four plastic rings about three inches in diameter on the inside which can be used by a child to pull up on. Four hinges made of plastic must be pushed up in order to fold the playpen. The product, which is imported from Italy, retails for about $89.99. The "Circus Polo" playpen model number 582 is not affected by this action. Approximately, 2,500 playpens have been distributed nationwide since November 1984. Although some of the playpens have the suffocation hazard warning label, all of the playpens present a finger crushing hazard in the folded drop side locking system and a choking hazard in the removable plastic feet. C&T International will provide a free modification kit to consumers who call l-800-537-1922. New Jersey residents call 201-896-2555. The kit contains a Safety Alert warning of the potential suffocation hazard, plastic inserts to prevent the possibility of finger crushing incidents in the folded drop side locking system, and replacement plastic feet which can not be removed by young children. Children should never be left in playpens with the drop sides down. Until owners receive and install the modification kit, the plastic feet should be removed and discarded.
Umbrella Stroller Recalled by Service Merchandise NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 1988 Release # 88-028 Umbrella Stroller Recalled WASHINGTON D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Services Merchandise Company of Nashville, Tennessee, today announced a voluntary recall of 15,000 Umbrella Strollers, Model 1601 PRT, which were purchased in Service Merchandise stores from August, 1986 through March, 1987. The hazard involves sixteen tube end plugs on each stroller that are considered to be "small parts," which may come out and present a choking hazard to children. In addition, when the plugs are removed, the exposed metal tube ends could have "sharp edges." Neither Service Merchandise nor the Commission is aware of any injuries to small children as a result of these small parts and sharp edges. Consumers having Model 1601 PRT Umbrella Strollers should stop using them, and immediately contact Service Merchandise for a modification kit. Service Merchandise is offering a modification kit at no charge to its customers. The Model 1601 PRT Strollers involved are navy blue with red trim. The model number is located on the ID tag attached at the top of the fabric seat. To obtain a free modification kit, call toll-free, l-800- 251-1389. Tennessee residents may call toll-free, 1-800-251- 1212. Requests may also be sent to Service Merchandise Company, Customer Relations Department, PO Box 24600, Nashville, Tennessee 37202.
Baby Rattle & Colorforms Puzzles Recalled by Toys-R-Us NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 11, 1988 Release # 88-026 Toys-R-Us Recalls Baby Rattle And Colorforms Puzzles WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Toys-R-Us of Rochelle Park, New Jersey, is recalling Colorforms #150 Story Book Puzzles and Crib Pals Shake and Twist Baby Rattles, #098132, because they violate safety requirements and present a potential choking hazard. The Colorforms #150 Story Book Puzzles are five piece wooden puzzles in two models: The "Pinky Brite Bear" and the "Rosy Brite Bear". The puzzles are packaged in brightly colored boxes labeled, "COLORFORMS WOOD N' PEG BRITE BEAR STORY BOOK PUZZLE, AGES 1 l/2 TO 3 YEARS. MADE IN COSTA RICA DISTRIBUTED BY LASH DISTRIBUTORS, ROCHELLE PARK, NJ 07662. Some of the pieces of the puzzles are small parts and present a potential choking hazard. The Department of Consumer Protection for the State of Connecticut identified this violation. Approximately 12,000 of these puzzles were sold nationwide from September '86 to December '87 through Toys-R-Us Stores for approximately $5.97. The Crib Pals Shake N' Twist Baby Rattle, #098132, measures 5 l/2 inches by 1 3/4 inches. One end has a ball 1 l/2 inches in diameter which contains liquid and six colored pellets. The other end contains a squeaker 1 3/4 inches in diameter. The rattler can break during use, and the broken pieces present a potential choking hazard. The rattle is packaged on a card labeled, "CRIB PALS SHAKE AND TWIST RATTLE, TOYS-R-US, AGES 6 MONTHS AND UP SKN 098132, MANUFACTURED BY SHIN NIHON TSUSHO JAPAN." Approximately 24,000 of these rattles were sold nationwide from March '86 to December '87 through Toys-R-Us stores for approximately $1.48. Although the CPSC and Toys-R-Us have not received reports of any injuries or deaths involving the Colorforms puzzles or the Shake and Twist baby rattles, consumers should take these toys away from children and return them to any Toys-R-Us store for a full refund of the purchase price. Anyone wishing additional information about this recall may call Toys-R-Us at 201-368-5433.
Rainbox Bell Baby Rattles Recalled by LI Peng Enterprises NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 11, 1988 Release # 88-027 Li Peng Enterprises Recalls Rainbow Bell Baby Rattles WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Li Peng Enterprises, Inc., Los Angeles, California today announced the voluntary recall of Rainbow Bell baby rattles, Item CT-8013, which present a choking hazard to infants. The rattles are multicolored plastic with a handle made up of what appears to be beads at one end and 4 bell-shaped noise makers in a circle at the other end. The item is labeled, "C T Made In Taiwan". Neither Li Peng nor the Commission know of any injuries caused by these baby rattles. The rattle presents a choking hazard because the handle is small enough to enter a child's mouth and long enough to reach the back of the throat and because the metal bell can detach from the top part of the rattle. Consumers should take the rattles away from infants immediately and return the rattles to the retail store where purchased for a full refund of the purchase price. Approximately 86,400 of the baby rattles were sold between June 1987 and August 1987 for $2.85. The rattles were identified during Operation Toyland import surveillance in the Port of Los Angeles. Operation Toyland is part of a cooperative program between U.S. Customs and the CPSC to stop noncomplying hazardous toys from being distributed.
Wood Baby Swing Replacement Program by Hedstrom NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued April 25, 1988, Revised October 22, 2004 Release # 88-024 Note: Firm out of business. Consumers should discard or destroy the products to prevent injuries. Hedstrom Offers Free Replacement For Wood Baby Swing Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Hedstrom Corporation, Bedford, Pennsylvania, voluntarily replaced approximately 6,562 Hedstrom and Sears brand wooden baby swings sold nationally from April through December 1987. Hedstrom was aware of four reported incidents in which the swings collapsed because glue failed to hold the joints between the slats and frame. One reported incident involved bruises suffered by a child in the swing. Affected units can be identified by the model identification label located on the swing side or seat. Affected models are Hedstrom brand 4-798 and Sears brand 512.70907. Consumers should immediately discontinue using this swing and discard or destroy it. The firm is out of business and a remedy is no longer available. To report a consumer product hazard, consumers may call the CPSC toll-free Hotline on 1-800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number, for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Speed Wheels Riding Toy Repair by Schaper Manufact. NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 20, 1988 Release # 88-023 Repair Offered For Schaper Manufacturing Co. "Speed Wheels" Riding Toy WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Schaper "Speed Wheels" ride-on toys, which have been associated with eight incidents of laceration or fingertip severance, are the subject of a repair program announced today. In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Tyco Toys, Inc., Mt. Laurel, NJ is offering a free guard kit for approximately 25,000 1986 models sold without guards. Tyco Toys, Inc. purchased the Schaper Manufacturing Company's toy business in 1986. Schaper, of Minneapolis, MN, originally designed and manufacturerd the toy. Injuries have resulted from entrapment of children's fingers between the pedal bar and the body of the toy. This corrective action program applies only to 1986 (Schaper Model No. 61106) models sold without guard kit. Other toys distributed by Tyco Toys, Inc. are not affected. Owners of this model should call Tyco at its toll-free number, 800-257-7728 (in New Jersey, call 800-322-8011). They may also write: Speed Wheels Corrective Action Program Tyco Toys, Inc. 540 Glen Avenue Moorestown, NJ 08057
Series 1 GFCI Circuit Breakers Replacement by Square D NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued April 13, 1988, Revised June 26, 2006 Release # 88-022 Note: Phone Number Change. Square D Company Offers Free Replacement Program WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Square D Company of Palatine, Illinois is voluntarily offering free replacement of its 15 through 30 ampere size Series 1 two-pole ground fault interrupting (GFCI) circuit breakers. Ground fault circuit breakers tire safety devices which provide protection against electrocution in addition to the normal circuit breaker overload protection function. Two-pole GFCI circuit breakers are often used on 240 volt circuits serving hot tubs/spas, swimming pool equipment, pumps and fountain equipment, and other applications where electrical failure of the protected equipment could pose a risk of electrocution. Square D Company is taking this action because it has discovered that early failure of an electronic component may disable the electric shock protection provided by this product. The involved Square D GFCI circuit breakers have a yellow "Push-To-Test" button and are two-pole units which are physically twice the size of most branch circuit breakers. Persons who believe they may have such a unit or who have questions should telephone Square D Company at (877) 202-9046 between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for information concerning Square D's free replacement program. Square D GFCI circuit breakers which display the Square D trademark near the circuit breaker handle are not subject to this problem. Also, circuit breakers without the yellow "Push-To-Test" button are not GFCI devices and are not subject to this problem. Approximately 80,000 of the involved units have been sold and installed nationwide since 1982. Square D Company is not aware of any injuries resulting from the problem with its product. The normal circuit breaker function is not affected by this problem. The Consumer Product Safety Commission believes GFCI's provide a significant level of electrical safety. The Commission recommends that all GFCI's, both circuit-breaker type and outlet type, be tested frequently, at least monthly, using the test button on each unit.
LP Gas Grills Safety Alert by W.C. Bradley NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 12, 1988 Release # 88-021 W.C. Bradley Issues Safety Alert on LP Gas Grills WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, W.C. Bradley Enterprises, Columbus, Georgia, today issued a safety alert for approximately 1.8 million LP gas grills manufactured from 1983 through 1985 under the CHAR-BROIL and PATIO KITCHEN labels. The Commission and W.C. Bradley are aware of 330 reports of loosening of the connection of the gas hose to the gas valve. This could result in gas leaking and possibly igniting. Neither the Commission nor W.C. Bradley is aware of any injuries or extensive property damage involving these grills. These gas grills did not have the hose and regulator pre-assembled to the valve. As part of the assembly of the grill, the consumer had to connect the hose to the valve. The owner's manual did not include instructions specifying the use of a wrench to tighten this connection. Consumers should use a wrench to make certain that the connection between the hose and valve is tight. While facing the front of the grill, turn the wrench in a counterclockwise direction. Then, check for leaks following the procedures described in the owner's manual. Consumers with questions should call W.C. Bradley toll-free at l-800-241-7548. To report unsafe consumer products or to receive safety information, call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at (301) 595-7054.
Infant Socks with Plastic Ornaments Warning by Princeton Hosiery Mills NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 11, 1988 Release # 88-020 Princeton Hosiery Mills Issues Warning On Plastic Ornaments On Infant Socks WASHINGTON --- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Le-Roi, a division of Princeton Hosiery Mills, Princeton, Kentucky, issued a warning today to consumers concerning two styles of its infant socks because they may present a choking or aspiration hazard if the plastic ornaments which are small parts, detach from the socks. Neither CPSC or Le-Roi knows of any injuries involving these socks. One style is a white sock with a blue, pink, turquoise or yellow stripe that had three pastel plastic teddy bears attached to the ankle. The other style is a white anklet with a "pearl" bead affixed to a satin bow on the cuff. Princeton Hosiery Mills marketed these hosiery items under it own "LE-ROI" label as well as under the "MOTHER CARE" label for Mother Care, Inc., New York, NY. The socks are identified as style numbers 1928 and 2213, or 2188 and 2120 respectively. The socks with the teddy bear ornaments were not shipped by Le-Roi after October 1986, and the socks with the pearl bead were not shipped after April 1987. Consumers who purchased these hosiery items for children under three should immediately remove the teddy bears and/or pearl bead from the socks and discard these ornaments to eliminate potential choking hazards. To report unsafe consumer products, call the CPSC toll-free hotline 800-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Surge Suppressors Recalled by GE NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 21, 1988 Release # 88-018 GE Recalls 45,000 Surge Suppressors WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, General Electric Company, Warwick, Rhode Island, is recalling an estimated 45,000 GE and RCA brand Electronic Protection Center surge suppressors, sold nationally by a variety of retailers from October, 19S6 to December 4, 1987. Four GE surge suppressor models, EPC-6S, EPC6NS, EPC-4NS, and EPC-CPU and two RCA surge suppressors, models SK416 and SKF416, are being recalled. Some of these surge suppressor- c are defective and may present a severe electric shock hazard. A defective product's metal housing and the metal housing of any 3-wire appliance connected to it could be electrified. Although neither shock incidents nor injuries have been reported, four defective units have been returned to GE after their internal circuit breakers reportedly tripped in separate incidents. The product, which sells for about $4O-$60, resembles a power strip with four or six electrical outlets in a light gray colored metal housing. Each unit has an on/off switch, a power indicator light, a resettable circuit breaker, and a 6-foot power cord. The label on top of each unit includes (1) the GE or RCA brand and logo, (2) the words "Electronic Protection Center Surge Suppressor", "Electronic Protection Center Surge and Noise Suppressor", or "Computer Protector" and (3) one of the above-listed model numbers. The product was designed for use with personal computers, stereos, TVs and VCRs. Owners who have a surge suppressor subject to this recall should disconnect the product from the wall outlet, without touching the metal housing, and mail it to: General Electric Company Attn: EPC Recall PO Box 8203 Beaverton, OR 97076 A new product will be returned to the consumer along with reimbursement of the postage cost. For additional information, consumers may call the GE Answer Center toll free at 800-626-2000. To report an unsafe consumer product or to receive safety information, consumers may call the CPSC toll free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
BMX-12" Bicycle Wheels Replacement By Rand Bicycle NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 3, 1988 Release # 88-010 Replacement Program Announced For Rand Bicycle Wheels WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Rand International of Farmingdale, New York, today announced a voluntary replacement program involving approximately 40,000 Model BMX-12 inch sidewalk bicycle wheels, distributed through Otasco and other small retail chain stores in Eastern, Southern and Southwestern U.S., prior to January 1987. The bicycle in question is a 12" boys bicycle in blue with pneumatic tires. The bicycle can be identified by the Rand label on the stem of the front fork and its black tires (with the following marks imprinted on them): SHYH HWA Inflate 40-50 PSI 12 l/2 x 12 l/4 Made in Taiwan The potential hazard involves wheel rim breakage during the inflation process. When the tire is inflated beyond the recommended P.S.I. (pounds per square inch), the plastic rim may shatter and cause injury to the inflator or to bystanders. Over-inflation beyond the recommendation noted on the tire is inconsistent with inflation instructions. CAUTION must be exercised by the consumer. Rand and the Commission are not aware of any incidents involving injury with this product; however, laboratory tests have indicated the potential for breakage with the Model BMX-12 when over-inflated. To determine if your product is affected by the announcement, consumers can call the CPSC for toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.