NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Yolanda Fultz-Morris
April 8, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1219
Release # 98-091

CPSC, Honeywell Announce Recall of Heaters and Humidifiers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Honeywell Consumer Products, of Southborough, Mass., is recalling about 1.6 million heaters sold under the Duracraft brand name, about 8,000 heaters sold under the DeLonghi brand name and 150,000 humidifiers sold under the Duracraft and Honeywell brand names in the United States and Canada. The heaters and humidifiers can overheat, presenting a fire hazard.

Honeywell has received 56 reports of heaters overheating or catching fire, causing one minor injury, and six reports of humidifiers overheating or catching fire. Some of the fires relating to these heaters and humidifiers caused extensive damage.

Only Duracraft model CZ-303, CZ-304, CZ-308, CZ-318, CZ-319 Heat Express and DeLonghi model CER-1 portable electric ceramic heaters are involved in this recall. The model number is located on a silver sticker on the bottom of the heater. The heater is 1500 watts and is colored black. Control knobs are located on the top or front of the unit. "Heat Express " and "Duracraft " or "DeLonghi" appear on the front of the unit.

Only Duracraft model DH-950 Moisture SelectTM humidifiers and Honeywell model HCW-3040 Moisture SelectTM humidifiers are involved in this recall. The model number is located on the bottom of the humidifier. The humidifier is colored white and has a clear water tank that holds about two gallons. Control knobs and two output vents (one for cold moisture and one for warm moisture) are located on top of the unit. "Duracraft" or "Honeywell" appears between the two output vents on top of the unit.

Retail outlets including discount stores, home centers, club stores and catalogue showrooms nationwide sold the Duracraft heaters from January 1989 through March 1998 for about $50 to $75. The DeLonghi heaters were sold from January 1989 through December 1990. Similar retail outlets nationwide sold the Duracraft and Honeywell humidifiers from May 1995 through March 1998 for about $50 to $80.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled heaters and humidifiers and call Honeywell at (800) 632-9498 anytime for instructions on returning their product for a free replacement.

Model CZ 308 Heater

Model CZ 304 Heater

Humidifier

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT:Jane Francis
September 4, 1997	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1187
Release # 97-184

CPSC, Duracraft Announce Recall of Humidifiers

WASHINGTON,D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Duracraft Corp. of Southborough, Mass., is recalling about 1 million humidifiers. The humidifiers can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Duracraft has received approximately 85 reports of these humidifiers overheating and catching on fire or producing smoke. There are no confirmed reports of injuries or deaths, but there have been reports of minor and major property damage.

Duracraft model DH-901 through DH-904 humidifiers with date codes that fall within the range of 900101 to 941231 and all model DH-3001 through DH-3006 humidifiers are involved in this recall. The model number and, if applicable, date code are located on a sticker on the bottom of each humidifier's base. These humidifiers have a rectangular shape.

Each humidifier includes a rectangular water tank ranging in size from 1 to 4 gallons. The tank is located next to the mist chamber which has an attached control panel. "Duracraft" is written on the front of the unit.

Major retail stores nationwide sold the humidifiers from January 1991 through June 1996 for about $40 to $80. Consumers should stop using these humidifiers immediately and call Duracraft toll-free at (800) 290-8495 anytime to receive a free replacement part to repair the model DH-901 through DH-904 humidifiers or to receive a replacement unit for model DH-3001 through DH-3006 humidifiers. Consumers can also write to Duracraft at 250 Turnpike Road, Southborough, MA 01772.

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Yolanda Fultz-Morris
April 15, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1219
Release # 98-096

CPSC, General Electric Co. Announce Recall of Outlet Converters

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), General Electric Co.'s GE Lighting division of Cleveland, Ohio, is recalling about 50,000 outlet converters, also known as current taps. They convert a single electrical outlet into three outlets. The ground connector receptacles are oversized and can cause loose ground contacts. Without grounding, consumers are exposed to serious shock hazards.

GE has received one report of a loose ground plug. No injuries have been reported.

The outlet converters were sold as "GE Heavy-Duty Grounding Triple Taps." They are made of ivory, orange or green plastic and measure about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The GE logo is imprinted on one side of the converter and "15A-125V...CURRENT TAP...MADE IN CHINA" is imprinted on the other side of the converter. A silver UL label also appears on the converter.

Retail stores nationwide sold the converters from September 1997 through January 1998 for about $3 to $4.

Consumers should stop using the recalled converters immediately and call General Electric at (800) 729-4399 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. CDT Monday through Friday. Consumers will be instructed on how to return the product for a free replacement.

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Stacey Reuben Mesa
September 20, 1994	(301) 504-0580, Ext. 1189
Release # 94-134

Washington, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (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.

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Jane Francis
February 12, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1187
Release # 98-066

CPSC, Appliance Corp. of America Announce Recall of Ovens

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Appliance Corp. of America (ACA) of Great Neck, N.Y., is implementing a voluntary corrective action program on more than 100,000 toaster and convection ovens sold under the WELBILT brand name to replace their power cords. If the power cords touch the back of the oven, they could melt and expose wires, presenting a serious shock hazard to consumers.

ACA has not received any reports of power cords melting. This corrective action is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The WELBILT toaster oven subject to this corrective action is model TBR5. The model number and the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark are located on the bottom of the oven. The power cord is white. This oven is also a broiler, rotisserie and griddle. The WELBILT convection ovens subject to this corrective action are model GTC1 and CVN35. The model number and the UL mark are located on the bottom of the ovens. The power cord is white.

Department and mass merchandise stores, warehouse clubs, mail order catalogs and television shopping networks nationwide sold the ovens from January 1996 through December 1997 for about $99.

Consumers should stop using the ovens immediately and call ACA at (800)671-5301 anytime for instructions on returning their oven for a free repair.

Both the toaster and convection ovens were manufactured by Daysun Industries. Their new, black power cords are listed by UL.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information via Internet gopher services at cpsc.gov or report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Kim Dulic
December 17, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1183
Release # 99-039

CPSC, Firms Announce Recall of Extension Cords, Hair Dryers

The following product safety recalls were conducted by firms in cooperation with the CPSC.

PRODUCT: Extension Cords - Morton Paper Co. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling about 75,750 extension cords. The recalled extension cords are white and brown. The cords each have three receptacles and one two-prong plug. The white cords are available in lengths of 9, 12 and 15 feet. The brown cords are available in lengths of 6, 9, 12, 15 and 20 feet. The cords are packaged in green, white and red cardboard display sleeves that are labeled in part, "HOUSEHOLD EXTENSION CORD...MADE IN CHINA." The last 5 digits of the UPC code range from 18006 through 18020. Discount stores throughout the New York Metropolitan area sold the extension cords from October 1997 through June 1998 for about $1 to $2.

PROBLEM: The cords have undersized wires that cannot carry the advertised load, lack overcurrent protection and are equipped with plugs that are not polarized properly, presenting fire, shock and electrocution hazards.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported.

WHAT TO DO: Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. If consumers have questions about this recall, they should call Morton Paper Co. Inc. at (718) 417-1717 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

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PRODUCT: Portable Hairdryer - Sound-Tech Import Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif., is recalling about 360 portable hairdryers. These hairdryers are white and black plastic with black accessories. A label near the air vent reads, "International AC 110V 50/60 HZ 1500W." The housing is labeled, "WARNING -- TO AVOID POSSIBLE ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT IMMERSE OR USE WHILE BATHING." The carton was labeled, in part, "INTERNATIONAL . . . COMPACT PRO WITH ATTACHMENTS . . . MADE IN CHINA . . . SX-3000." Small, independent retailers sold these hairdryers from March 1996 through November 1998 for about $7.

PROBLEM: These hairdryers are not equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electric shock in case of current leakage.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported.

WHAT TO DO: Consumers should immediately stop using these hairdryers and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, consumers should call Sound-Tech Imports at (877) SOUND TK between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. PST Monday through Friday.

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Ken Giles
August 6, 1996	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1184
Release # 96-181

CPSC Warns of Failures With Home Gas Sentry Carbon Monoxide Detectors distributed by Stanley Solar & Stove

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urgently warning consumers about 6,000 Home Gas Sentry carbon monoxide (CO) detectors imported and distributed by Stanley Solar & Stove Inc. of Manchester, N.H. that may fail to alarm. As a result, consumers could be exposed to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, toxic gas, which could lead to serious illness or death.

CPSC tested the detectors and found that the detectors could fail to alarm at concentrations of CO at 100 and 200 parts per million. Concentrations at this level can cause serious illness or death.

CPSC requested that Stanley Solar & Stove recall the detectors, remove them from store shelves, and contact retailers and consumers about this recall. CPSC is unilaterally issuing this press release concerning the Home Gas Sentry CO detectors because Stanley Solar & Stove is unable to participate in a recall and has not warned the public about potential risks associated with the CO detectors.

The rectangular, off-white, plastic detectors measure approximately 4.75 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and 1.75 inches deep with the words "Gas Sentry" on the front of the detector. A green "Power" light and a red "Alarm" light appear in the center of the detectors. The company name, manufacturing date, and manufacturing number are located on a sticker on the back of the detector. The detectors have a white cord and plug.

Coal and wood stove dealers sold the detectors in the northeastern United States from February 1988 to May 1996 for approximately $80. The detectors were packaged in a rectangular white box labeled in part, "Home Gas Sentry...120 Volts AC...Model Z-1604-KM...

Consumers are urged to stop using the Home Gas Sentry CO detectors and replace them with new detectors that meet Underwriters Laboratories Standard 2034 effective October 1, 1995.

CO is produced when fuel is burned with incomplete combustion. CO poisoning from home fuel-burning appliances and camping equipment kills at least 250 people each year and sends another 5,000 to hospital emergency rooms for treatment. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu (without the fever). They include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and irregular breathing. Common sources of carbon monoxide include room heaters, furnaces, charcoal grills, ranges, water heaters, and fireplaces.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information via Internet gopher services at cpsc.gov or report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

< /TR>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Ken Giles
March 19, 1999	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1184
	Kidde Safety Media Contacts: Quinn Hudson or Bill Crane
	(800) 880-6788 Ext. 777
Release # 99-082

CPSC, Kidde Safety Announce Recall of Carbon Monoxide Alarms

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kidde Safety, of Mebane, N.C., is voluntarily recalling about 1 million carbon monoxide alarms, including 650,000 Nighthawks and 350,000 Lifesavers. The Lifesaver models could alarm late or not alarm at all, and the Nighthawk models could alarm late. These alarms are used to detect carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas, leaking from fuel burning appliances. When they don't work, consumers can be unknowingly exposed to hazardous levels of CO, and suffer injury or death.

Kidde Safety and CPSC are not aware of any injuries involving these products. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The Nighthawk models included in this recall are all models manufactured between November 8, 1998, and March 9, 1999. The manufacturing date is on the back of the unit as year, month, day. "NIGHTHAWK" and "Carbon Monoxide Alarm" are written on the front of the unit. If "Carbon Monoxide Detector" is written on the front, the unit is operating properly and is not part of the recall.

The Lifesaver models included in this recall are models 9CO-1 and 9CO-1C manufactured between June 1, 1997, and January 31, 1998. The manufacturing date is on the back of the unit as the first six numbers in the serial number, located above the UPC code. The manufacturing date is written as day, month, year. "LIFESAVER" and "Carbon Monoxide Detector" are written on the front of the unit. Kidde Safety will help consumers identify whether their units are involved in this recall.

Consumers can participate in the recall in one of two direct ways. Visit the Kidde Safety recall web site at www.nhawk.com and follow the instructions, or call Kidde Safety toll-free at (888) 543-3346 between 8 a.m and 8 p.m. EST Monday through Sunday to identify whether their alarms are involved in this recall. If so, consumers will be sent a postage-paid envelope to return the alarm. Lifesaver models will be repaired, and Nighthawk models will be inspected and tested, and repaired if needed.

Kidde Safety has informed CPSC that consumers will receive alarms back within 30 days. All returned alarms will be recertified to UL-2034.

Hardware and mass merchandise stores nationwide sold these alarms beginning in 1998 for about $20 to $50. Consumers should not return the alarms to stores.

The initial symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to flu, and include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Exposure to high levels of CO can cause death. CO poisoning associated with using fuel-burning appliances kills more than 200 people each year and sends about 10,000 to hospital emergency rooms for treatment.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information or report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Ken Giles
February 24, 1999	(301) 504-0580 Ext.1184
Release # 99-069

CPSC Warns Consumers About Faulty Extension Cords, Power Strips and Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers about millions of faulty extension cords, power strips and surge protectors that pose a fire, shock and electrocution danger. Since 1994, CPSC has announced 25 recalls involving 2 million extension cords, power strips and surge protectors because they have undersized wires, loose connections, faulty components or improper grounding. The defects in these products can result in fires or pose a shock or electrocution hazard to consumers.

Most of these substandard cords were sold at discount stores and small retailers for about $1 to $7. Most were made in China. Many have no identifying marks or model numbers. Some have counterfeit Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification labels. Extension cords, power strips and surge protectors must be able to handle the amount of current required by the appliance. Defective cords fail to meet current industry safety standards and can be overloaded easily if they are used to plug in even small appliances.

"With computers, VCRs, and a growing number of other appliances in our homes, more consumers are using extension cords, power strips and surge protectors," said CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. "Many meet current safety standards, but the poorly constructed models recalled in recent years are a hidden fire and electrocution hazard. You should check your home immediately and make sure you aren't using one of these recalled cords."

In 1997, CPSC began an investigation to monitor the extension cords, power strips and surge protectors sold in stores across the country. CPSC investigators inspected products sold through discount stores, mass merchandisers, dollar stores and hardware chains. After collecting suspect samples from 83 locations around the country, investigators found that 72 percent of the samples failed to meet current safety standards. CPSC also worked with U.S. Customs to monitor the extension cords, power strips and surge protectors shipped to U.S. ports. Many of the recent recalls of these cords were the result of this investigation.

In 1996, electrical cords and plugs were involved in about 7,100 fires resulting in 120 deaths or about 32 percent of all deaths associated with residential electrical system fires. In 1997, more than 12,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for electrical burns and shocks and about 2,500 people were treated for injuries associated with extension cords.

CPSC provides these safety tips for consumers:

Look for a certification label from an independent testing lab such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories ) or ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories) on the package and on the product itself. Products with this certification label meet current industry safety standards. For extension cords, look for a permanently attached certification label on the cord near the plug. For power strips and surge protectors, inspect the underside of the casing and make certain that it is marked with the manufacturer's name and the testing lab.
Use electrical cords, power strips and surge protectors that have polarized plugs with one blade slightly wider the other, or grounded three-pronged plugs. These features reduce the risk of electric shock.
Use special, heavy duty extension cords for high wattage appliances such as air conditioners, portable electric heaters and freezers.
Extension cords used outside should be specifically designed for such use to guard against shock.
Insert plugs fully so that no part of the prongs are exposed when the cord is in use.
Never cover any part of an extension cord with rugs or other objects while it is in use. If the cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which can result in fire.
Don't overload cords with too many appliances. Change the cord to a higher-rated one or unplug and relocate appliances to other outlets.
Make sure cords do not dangle from the counter or table tops where they can be pulled down or tripped over.
If a cord feels hot to the touch, stop using it and throw it away.
Replace cracked or worn cords.
Don't use extension cords to compensate for inadequate home wiring. Use extension cords only when necessary and only on a temporary basis.

CPSC is working with U.S. Customs to identify shipments of substandard cords before they reach store shelves. CPSC investigators are continuing to monitor the cords currently being sold in stores. The Commission also is working with Chinese trade officials to stop exports of substandard cords to the United States.

To view recalls on these products issued by CPSC, please go to our search engine and enter one of the following, depending on your interest, in the search box:

extension cord*
power strip*
surge protector*

(The * ensures getting all items, for example, extension cord and extension cords).

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's web site at http://www.cpsc.gov. Consumers can report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Jane Francis
June 2, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext.1187
Release # 98-117

CPSC, Electronic Resources Ltd. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Electronic Resources Ltd. of San Diego, Calif., is recalling about 5,000 power strip surge protectors. The power strips have undersized and loose wires and poor grounding, presenting fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers.

CPSC and Electronic Resources Ltd. are not aware of any injuries involving these power strips. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

There are two models of power strips being recalled: model PW-101 and model PW-102. Model PW-101 has six outlets and Model PW-102 has four outlets. There is no labeling on the power strips, but they are 6 feet long and they are made of a light tan metal with black outlets and power cords. The power strips were sold in green cardboard boxes with black lettering that reads in part, "ER...POWER STRIP...MODEL...6FT POWER CORD...HECHO EN CHINA." A picture of the power strip appears on the box.

Small electronic parts stores in Arizona, California, Texas and Washington sold the power strips from May 1993 through March 1998 for about $4.

Consumers should stop using the recalled power strips immediately. To receive a refund, consumers should return the power strips to the store where purchased or to the company. Consumers should call Electronic Resources Ltd. at (800) 795-0050 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.PDT Monday through Friday for instructions on returning the power strips to the company or for more information about this recall.

U.S. Customs alerted CPSC to this product hazard.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's web site at http://www.cpsc.gov or via Internet gopher services at cpsc.gov. Consumers can report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Jane Francis
June 2, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext.1187
Release # 98-117

CPSC, Electronic Resources Ltd. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Electronic Resources Ltd. of San Diego, Calif., is recalling about 5,000 power strip surge protectors. The power strips have undersized and loose wires and poor grounding, presenting fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers.

CPSC and Electronic Resources Ltd. are not aware of any injuries involving these power strips. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

There are two models of power strips being recalled: model PW-101 and model PW-102. Model PW-101 has six outlets and Model PW-102 has four outlets. There is no labeling on the power strips, but they are 6 feet long and they are made of a light tan metal with black outlets and power cords. The power strips were sold in green cardboard boxes with black lettering that reads in part, "ER...POWER STRIP...MODEL...6FT POWER CORD...HECHO EN CHINA." A picture of the power strip appears on the box.

Small electronic parts stores in Arizona, California, Texas and Washington sold the power strips from May 1993 through March 1998 for about $4.

Consumers should stop using the recalled power strips immediately. To receive a refund, consumers should return the power strips to the store where purchased or to the company. Consumers should call Electronic Resources Ltd. at (800) 795-0050 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.PDT Monday through Friday for instructions on returning the power strips to the company or for more information about this recall.

U.S. Customs alerted CPSC to this product hazard.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, c a l l CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's web site at http://www.cpsc.gov or via Internet gopher services at cpsc.gov. Consumers can report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Kate Primo
December 21, 1995	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1187
Release # 96-053

CPSC, SENTROL, INC. ANNOUNCE MOOSE BRAND CONTROL PANEL RECALL

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sentrol, Inc. of Tualatin, Ore., is recalling 5,000 Moose brand security control panels used with smoke detectors. Some of the systems have built-in warning systems that sound to alert consumers to problems with the alarms, such as malfunctioning components, that require servicing. On certain models, these warning systems fail to sound. When the warning system fails, consumers have no way of knowing if their control panel is working.

Sentrol is recalling only control panels used with two-wire smoke detectors, including up to 4,000model Z1200 systems, with manufacturing date codes 0594 through 4795, sold from January 1994 until November 9, 1995; 400 model Z1250 systems, with date codes 3195 through 4795, sold from August 1995 until November 9, 1995; and 300 model D3000 systems, with date codes 4894 through 4595, sold from December 1994 until November 9, 1995. The detection systems ranged in price from $189 to $359. Professional home protection firms sold and installed these systems under the brand name "Moose."

Consumers should check the model number and date code located on the inner connect label inside the main panel door to determine if their Moose brand security panel is part of this recall. Consumers who suspect that they own defective panels should immediately contact the company from whom they purchased the system for free repairs. For more information, consumers should call Sentrol at (800) 547-2556 or write to the company at 12345 S.W. Levetron Dr., Tualatin, Ore. 97062.

CPSC is not aware of any incidents involving these alarms.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Jane Francis
November 19, 1996	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1187
Release # 97-024

CPSC and Best International Corp. Announce Hair Dryer Recall

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Best International Corp. of Long Island City, N.Y., is recalling approximately 5,000 hand held hair dryers. Since these dryers do not have a full immersion protection plug, they present a risk of electrocution if dropped in water while the dryer is in the "on" position. The hair dryers also present a fire hazard due to inadequate wiring.

Before the use of immersion protection devices, there were an average of 18 electrocutions involving hand-held hair dryers each year. Since the introduction of immersion protection devices for hand-held hair dryers, the number decreased to two electrocution deaths in 1992.

The current voluntary industry standard, which has been in effect since January 1, 1991, requires hand-held hair dryers to provide full immersion protection when either in the "on" or "off" position. The recalled dryers do not have this protection.

CPSC and Best International Corp. are not aware of any injuries involving these hair dryers. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The white colored plastic hair dryers come with dryer attachments in a box labelled, "International Hair Styling Set with 7 Attachments...HD-868." The hair dryer has the words "Professional Styler Asbestos Free" printed on it. Retailers in the metropolitan New York area, such as bargain, discount, and $.99 stores, sold these hair dryers from November 1995 to May 1996 for $9.99.

Consumers should stop using the recalled hair dryers immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Best International Corp. at (718) 472-0860 from 1 to 5 p.m. EST.

When buying a hair dryer, consumers should look for a large, rectangular-shaped plug at the end of the cord. The certification mark of a recognized testing laboratory should also be visible on the hair dryer or on the hair dryer's packaging. However, even with this improved protection, under no circumstances should consumers use a hair dryer where it could come in contact with water. Electricity and water are a potentially deadly combination.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from the unreasonable risk of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury and for information on CPSC's fax-on-demand service, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 from the handset of your fax machine and enter the release number. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information via Internet gopher services at cpsc.gov or report product hazards to [email protected].

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NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Yolanda Fultz-Morris
August 19, 1998	(301) 504-0580 Ext. 1219
Release # 98-152

CPSC, Boscov's Department Stores Announce Recall of Christmas Windmills

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Boscov's Department Store Inc., of Reading, Pa., is recalling approximately 19,000 Christmas windmills with candles. The candles are too close to the wooden structure of the windmill, and can cause the product to catch on fire.

Boscov's stores report one incident where the windmill caught on fire. No injuries were reported.

The windmill decoration is an "A" framed windmill building structure with a nativity scene on a turntable. It is pine, with a green roof and red trim. The fans of the windmill are printed with red stars. Candles are positioned in the four corners, which when lit, are designed to generate heat to turn the fan. The decoration comes in a mostly red box with a photo of the decoration on the front and back. The box includes the words, "14" H Pine Wooden Windmill. . . MADE IN CHINA."

Boscov's stores in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and New York sold the windmill decorations between September 1996 and July 1998. The windmills were a promotional item sold for about $3 with a $10 purchase.

Consumers should stop using this product immediately, and return it to any Boscov's store for a refund. For more information, contact Boscov's at (610) 370-3912 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday, or write to Boscov's, 4500 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, PA 19606.

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