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Recalls in January 1970

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    Honda Lawnmowers Recalled

    WASHINGTON, April 11, 2000 -- American Honda Motor Co. is recalling about 112,000 lawnmowers. The lawnmowers' fuel tanks' seam can split or crack, leaking fuel, and creating a fire and burn hazard.

    The company said it has received 25 reports of fuel leaking from these lawnmowers. There have been no fires or injuries reported.

    Honda power equipment dealers and The Home Depot sold the lawnmowers nationwide from May 1998 through January 2000 for about $430.

    The recall involves Harmony II walk-behind mowers with model numbers HRT216, HRR216 and HRS216. "Harmony II" and the model number are written on the front of the lawnmowers. The recalled mowers have an engine serial number between 1128495 and 1438098. The engine serial number is located under the fan cover, stamped into the engine case. The lawnmowers are dark gray with red fan covers. "HONDA" is written on the top of the fan casing.

    Consumers should stop using these lawnmowers immediately, and check to see if the gas tank is leaking. If there is a leak, immediately move the mower away from any possible ignition sources, for example, water heaters or electric appliances. Empty the fuel tank by following owner manual instructions. Consumers should take these mowers to a Honda power equipment dealer who will inspect and replace the fuel tanks free of charge. For dealer locations and more information, call American Honda Motor Co. at (800) 426-7701 anytime, or visit the company's Web site.

    Honda Lawnmowers Recalled...

    Hamilton Beach Juice Extractors Recalled

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2001 -- Hamilton Beach is voluntarily recalling about 2.4 million juice extractors. The juice extractor's strainer basket and lid can break apart, posing a risk of injury to nearby consumers, who can be struck by metal or plastic.

    Hamilton Beach has received 35 reports in the U.S. and Canada of strainer baskets breaking apart, including four incidents where consumers required stitches after being struck by broken metal and plastic.

    The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

    The recalled juice extractors are white plastic, about 12 inches in height, and have the name "Hamilton Beach" printed on the side of the unit. The juice extractors have the following model numbers, which can be found under each unit: 67150, 67180, 67180W, 395WS, 67199 and 3920JS.

    Mass merchandise stores nationwide sold these juice extractors between 1992 and October 2001 for between $30 and $40.

    Consumers should stop using these juice extractors immediately and call Hamilton Beach at (800) 298-9955 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for information on how to participate in the recall. Consumers with models for which replacement parts are available (models 67150, 67180 and 67180W) will receive a free replacement strainer basket. Consumers with models for which replacement parts are not available (models 395WS, 67199 and 3920JS) will receive their choice of a new juice extractor or a $10 refund.

    Hamilton Beach Juice Extractors Recalled...

    Penray, Super-X, Service Pro Starting Fluids Recalled

    WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2000 --

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    In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Penray Companies Inc., of Wheeling, Ill., is recalling about 113,000 cans of starting fluid, which is a lubricant to aid starting gas and diesel engines. The cans containing the starting fluid can leak as a result of internal to external corrosion. The starting fluid is extremely flammable and the leaking fluid poses a fire hazard. Direct contact with the product also can irritate the consumer's eyes and skin.

    Penray has received three reports of cans of the starting fluid leaking. No injuries have been reported.

    The recalled starting fluid was sold under the Penray, Super-X and Service Pro brand names in 10.1 ounce cans. The recalled cans have a number printed on the dome of the can ranging from 9305 through 9365. For consumers who purchased the starting fluid by the case, the production date is written on the side of the case. The cans are mostly black with white and red writing and black plastic caps.



    Automobile repair and rebuild shops sold the starting fluid nationwide from November 1999 through August 2000 for $2 to $3.

    Consumers should stop using the recalled starting fluid immediately. Place it in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or flames. Consumers should call Penray toll-free at (800) 323-6329 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday for information on how to dispose of these cans, and how to get a refund.

    The Penray Companies Inc., of Wheeling, Ill., is recalling about 113,000 cans of starting fluid......

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      Spray String Recalled

      "Spray String" Recalled After Child Suffers Burns

      WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 1999 -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), three firms are recalling about 912,000 cans of spray string sold under the names "Crazy Ribbon" and "Crazy String." 

      These spray strings' propellant is extremely flammable, creating a serious risk of burn injuries when sprayed near an open flame, such as birthday candles. 

      Flammable products intended for use by children are banned by federal law. CPSC is aware of at least one report of a burn injury resulting from the use of these spray strings. An 11-year-old boy suffered serious  burns during his birthday party that left permanent scars.

      Crazy Ribbon sprays strings of various colors, and comes in a round metal spray can about 6.5 inches high. The can is silver with a plastic cap that matches the color of the spray string. Depictions of various colored streamers cover the can. Writing on the can includes "CRAZY RIBBON" in multicolored block letters, "FOR PARTY CELEBRATION AND DECORATION," and "MADE IN TAIWAN." 

      Crazy String also sprays strings of various colors, and comes in a round metal spray can about 6.5 inches high. The can is silver with a plastic cap that matches the color of the spray string. Depictions of various colored streamers cover the can. Writing on the can includes "CRAZY STRING," "FOR PARTY CELEBRATION AND DECORATION," and "MADE IN TAIWAN."

      Party and hobby stores nationwide sold the spray string from October 1996 through July 1999 for between $2 and $4. Consumers should take these spray strings away from children and stop using them immediately. They can be returned to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 anytime.

      The firms which distributed the products are Stelex Enterprises Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif.; Major Import, of Whittier, Calif.; and LeSa Yang Family Ltd. of Diamond Bar, Calif.,

      The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from unreasonable risks 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, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270, or visit CPSC's web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/talk.html.

      Spray String and Spray Ribbon Recalled After Child Suffers Burns...

      RockShox Bicycle Suspension Forks Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 12, 2000 -- RockShox is voluntarily recalling about 220,000 front suspension bicycle forks worldwide. The compression rods inside these forks can break, causing the rider to lose control of the bicycle, fall, and possibly suffer serious injuries.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC).

      RockShox has received 23 reports of compression rods in these forks breaking, and two reports of injuries. Injuries included a concussion, a sprained wrist, scrapes and bruises.

      Only 2001 Judy TT, Judy TT Special, Jett and Metro model RockShox front suspension bicycle forks are included in this recall. They have serial numbers beginning with "01." The serial number can be found engraved on the back side of the fork's crown and on a bar code sticker attached to the fork's lower leg. "RockShox" and the model name are written on the bicycle forks. These forks were sold as original equipment on numerous brands and models of bicycles. These forks also were sold separately.

      Bicycle dealers nationwide sold these forks with bicycles and separately from July 2000 through October 2000. Bicycles with these forks sold for between $399 and $1,300, and forks alone sold for between $89 and $149.

      Consumers should stop riding bicycles with the recalled forks immediately, and return them to the bicycle dealer where purchased for inspection and repair if needed. A list of bicycle brands and models sold with these forks can be found here, or for this list and more information, call RockShox at (866) 888-6192 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, visit the firm's Web site or write to: RockShox Inc., Customer Service Dept., 1610 Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.

      RockShox Bicycle Suspension Forks Recalled...

      Sock Monkeys Recalled

      May Contain Needles

      WASHINGTON, D.C., June 16, 1999 -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Restoration Hardware Inc., of Corte Madera, Calif., is recalling approximately 12,000 Sock Monkey stuffed animals. Sewing needles or pins have been found in the stuffing of these monkeys presenting a laceration hazard.

      CPSC and Restoration Hardware are aware of one injury when an 18- month old girl in Utah received a needle stick on her lip. Restoration Hardware has since found an additional 17 monkeys in store inventory containing needles or pins.

      These monkeys are about 16 to 20 inches tall and made of a brown tweed-like knit fabric with white hands and feet. They have red lips, black felt eyes and a red patch directly under the tail. They have a brown tweed and white knit caps on their heads. They do not contain any buttons or other plastic parts.

      Restoration Hardware's stores, catalogs and web site sold the monkeys from October 1997 through May 1999 for about $29. The monkeys were produced both domestically and overseas.

      Consumers should return the monkeys to any Restoration Hardware store for a refund and a discount merchandise certificate. Catalog purchasers will be contacted directly by Restoration Hardware. For more information, call Restoration Hardware at (877) 747-4671 anytime.

      Only sock monkeys sold by Restoration Hardware are subject to this recall.

      Sock Monkeys Recalled...

      API, Bushmaster Treestand

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2002 -- API Outdoors is voluntarily recalling about 9,000 treestands used by hunters. A cable that secures the treestand to the tree can break, posing the risk of falls and serious injuries to hunters.

      API Outdoors has received two reports of the treestand's cable breaking, including one person who fell from a tree and suffered leg abrasions.

      The recalled treestands have the following brand names and model numbers: API Hi-Point Cable Cat Climbing Treestand, Model #CC501 and API Buckmaster Grand Slam Climbing Treestand, Model #GS3800BM. The treestands have an olive green frame, camo seats and seatbacks with black nylon cinch straps, and a yellow "WARNING" or "DANGER" label that reads in part, "Safety Restraint Must Be Used At All Times." The treestands are manufactured in Tallulah, La.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

      Retailers and distributors nationwide, including Wal-Mart, sold the Cable Cat treestands through mid-October 2002 for about $180 and Cabelas stores nationwide sold the Buckmaster treestands through mid- October 2002 for about $230.

      Consumers should stop using these treestands immediately and call API Outdoors toll-free at (866) 215-2419 anytime to receive a free, replacement chain. For more information, consumers can log on to the company's website at www.apioutdoors.com.

      API, Bushmaster Treestand...

      Playskool Toy Chests Sold at Target Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2002 -- XL Machine Ltd. is voluntarily recalling about 3,300 toy chests. Screws in the chests' lid support hinges can loosen over time, and come out from the base of the toy chests. If this happens, the lids of the toy chests can collapse suddenly, possibly causing injuries to children's head, neck, fingers or hands.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSC and XL have received one report of screws in the lid support hinge of a toy chest coming out, resulting in one injury, a bruise to the neck.

      These blue toy chests measure 18.5-inches by 12-inches by 12- inches, and were sold under the Playskool brand name. On the toy chest lid top are depictions of "Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head" characters and the "PLAYSKOOL" logo. The front panel has a "Glow Worm" figure and a dog. The bottom of the toy chests contains "DISTRIBUTED BY: XL MACHINE LTD, MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55347." The chests were made in China.

      Target stores sold the toy chest nationwide from October 2001 through December 2001 for about $50.

      Consumers should take these toy chests away from young children immediately and return them to the Target store where it was purchased for a refund or store credit. For more information, contact XL Machine toll-free at (866) 746-8097 anytime, or go to Target's web site at www.target.com.

      Playskool Toy Chests Sold at Target Recalled...

      Lawn-Boy Power Mowers Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Dec 11, 2001 -- Lawn-Boy Inc. is recalling about 90,000 Lawn-Boy power mowers. Stress cracks can develop in the mower's fuel tank, allowing gasoline to leak and posing a risk of fire and burn injuries.

      Lawn-Boy received nearly 400 reports of fuel tanks on these mowers leaking, and one report of a fire. No injuries or property damage were reported.

      The recalled Lawn-Boy SilverPro and GoldPro Series are walk-behind, 21- inch mowers powered by 2-cycle Duraforce engines. "Duraforce" is written on the top of the recoil starter. A decal on the right rear of the mower's housing has one of the following model numbers: 10247, 10252, 10323, 10324, 10424, 10550 or 10552. The decal also has a serial number starting with "21."

      Lawn-Boy dealers, and department and home center stores sold these mowers from December 2000 through November 2001 for between $300 and $600.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

      Consumers should stop using these recalled mowers immediately and contact Lawn-Boy to arrange for a free replacement fuel tank to be installed. To locate the nearest Lawn-Boy service dealer or for more information, consumers should call Lawn-Boy at (800) 444-8676 anytime, or go to the firm's web site at www.lawnboy.com.

      Lawn-Boy Power Mowers Recalled...

      Air Powered Rockets Recalled

      WASHINGTON, April 18, 2002 -- Estes Industries is voluntarily recalling about 140,000 Air Powered Rockets. The rockets' foam tips can break off exposing sharp edges that can cause face lacerations or eye injuries to consumers.

      The rocket systems also have weak pump handles that can break during use, posing a risk of hand lacerations.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC said there have been 16 reports of rocket tips breaking off.

      Six children were struck in the face by the rockets, including two children who suffered detached retinas and four children who suffered lacerations that required stitches or sutures. There were 68 reports of broken pump handles, including six hand lacerations.

      The blue, yellow and black GL-X200 Estes Air Powered Rocket Systems contains two blue rockets with yellow foam tips and are recommended for children 8 years of age and older. "ESTES AIR" is printed in black and white lettering in a 6-inch wide yellow oval on the front of the pump. Underneath the pump appear the words, "Made in China."

      Department stores nationwide, including Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and Zany Brainy, as well as e-businesses, catalogers and hobby shops sold these rockets from February 2001 through February 2002 for between $20 and $40.

      Consumers should stop using the air rockets immediately and call Estes Industries toll free at (800) 576-5811 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MT for information on how to get a replacement rocket. For more information, consumers can log on to the company's website at www.estesrockets.com.

      Rocket pumps that have a label that reads, "WARNING: Stay away from rocket when pumping and launching" are not included in this recall.

      Air Powered Rockets Recalled...

      Cannondale Bikes Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 24, 2002 -- Cannondale Corp. is voluntarily recalling about 800 Gemini bicycles with medium and large frames.

      The frames on some of these bicycles have been improperly manufactured, causing too much of the thickest portion of the downtube to be removed. This could cause the frame to break during use, resulting in falls and serious injury to riders.

      Cannondale has received three reports of frames breaking. One minor injury was reported.

      The recall involves the following bicycle models with medium and large-sized frames:

      • 2002 Gemini 1000
      • 2002 Gemini 2000
      • 2003 Gemini 900
      • 2003 Gemini 2000
      • 2003 Gemini 1000

      The bicycles have "Cannondale" written on the downtube, and "Gemini" and the model number are written on the top tube. The bicycles were sold in various colors.

      Authorized Cannondale retailers nationwide sold these bicycles from December 2001 through September 2002 for between $2,100 and $3,800.

      Consumers should stop riding these bicycles immediately and contact their local Cannondale retailer for a free inspection of their bicycle frame. Consumers with improperly manufactured frames will have a free replacement frame installed. For more information, consumers can contact Cannondale at (800) BIKEUSA or visit the company's web site at www.cannondale.com to find a local retailer.

      Cannondale Bikes Recalled...

      Vermont Precision Cribs Recalled

      WASHINGTON, April 25, 2002 -- Vermont Precision Woodworks is voluntarily recalling about 990 cribs. The slats on the cribs can loosen and detach from the drop side rail, creating a large opening between the slats where a child's head or neck could become entrapped, resulting in serious injury or death.

      Vermont Precision Woodworks has received 21 reports of slats detaching. No injuries have been reported.

      The recalled cribs include models, 7010Alpine, 7020 Caspian, 7030 Coventry, 7040 Dunmore and 7070 Haystack. The full-size cribs are solid maple and are available in five finishes, natural, colonial, white, cherry, and cinnamon. A label on the bottom of the cribs reads, "Vermont Precision Woodworks." The manufacturing date and model name is also printed on the label. The cribs were made in the USA.

      Juvenile product and furniture stores sold the cribs nationwide from January 2000 through March 2002 for between $500 and $800.

      Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled cribs until the repair has been performed. Vermont Precision Woodworks is providing consumers with replacement drop side rails. Consumers can contact Vermont Precision Woodworks toll-free at (866) 869-7974 anytime.

      The ASTM voluntary standard for full-size baby cribs includes tests for structural integrity of crib components. CPSC staff found that the recalled side rails failed the ASTM voluntary standard test. Vermont Woodworks revised the assembly procedure for the replacement rails to comply with the ASTM standard.

      Vermont Precision Cribs Recalled...

      Daily Shower Cleaner

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 1999 -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Benckiser Consumer Products Inc. is voluntarily recalling 230,000 bottles of Scrub Free Daily Shower Cleaner and Scrub Free Daily Shower Spray that can contain a bacteria. 

      The bacteria usually does not affect healthy individuals, but could cause respiratory or other infections in individuals with chronic health problems or in individuals who have impaired immune systems.

      Benckiser has not received any report of injury associated with this bacteria and these products.

      Scrub Free Daily Shower Cleaner is sold in a clear plastic, 32- ounce spray bottle. The spray cap is white with a purple screw cap and pull-lever. The front of the bottle shows either a picture of a star fish or an octopus. The Scrub Free Daily Shower Spray is sold in white plastic, 32-ounce spray bottles and 64-ounce refill bottles. "Just Mist for Self-Cleaning Action!" is written on the label. The 32-ounce spray bottles also were sold with the refill bottles attached as a special promotion.

      Supermarket, drug and discount department stores nationwide sold the affected lots of Scrub Free Daily Shower Cleaner and Scrub Free Daily Shower Spray from May 1999 through October 4, 1999 for about $2 to $4.

      Consumers should immediately stop using Scrub Free Daily Shower Cleaner and Scrub Free Daily Shower Spray purchased prior to October 5, 1999. 

      Shower enclosures that have been sprayed with these products should be washed with a diluted solution of vinegar (one part vinegar to two parts water). Consumers should call Benckiser at (800) 286-9055 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to receive a coupon for a free replacement bottle of any Scrub Free product. Consumers will need to provide information from their bottle of shower cleaner to get the coupon, and should then throw away the bottle of cleaner.

      Scrub Free Daily Shower Cleaner and Scrub Free Daily Shower Spray purchased after October 4, 1999, and Scrub Free Mildew Remover and Scrub Free Soap Scum Remover are not included in this recall.

      Benckiser Daily Shower Cleaner Recalled...

      Northern Tool & Equipment Air Compressor Recall

      WASHINGTON, Sept. 12, 2002 -- Northern Tool & Equipment is voluntarily recalling about 3,400 electric air compressors. The capacitors on these compressors can overheat, catch fire and ignite the plastic cover above the capacitor.

      Northern Tool has received six reports of capacitors overheating or igniting. No injuries have been reported. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

      The recalled air compressors are Model 191000 and Model 192000. The model number on both units can be found on the shipping carton and invoice. The Model 191000 is a 2.5 HP air compressor with a red, six- gallon capacity tank. A blue "Northern Industrial Tools" label is on the side of the tank. The compressor motor sits on top the tank and is covered with a black plastic shell. The Model 192000 is a 2.5 HP unit with twin two-gallon tanks. The twin tanks are red and stacked vertically on one side of the unit. A blue "Northern Industrial Tools" label is on the side of the top tank. The motor is located at the base of the unit, adjacent to the twin tanks, and is partially covered with a black plastic shell.

      Northern Tool sold the recalled Model 191000 and 192000 air compressors through direct mail and Northern Tool specialty stores nationwide from January 2002 to May 2002 for between $110 and $120.

      Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Model 191000 and 192000 air compressors and should contact Northern Tool for a refund. For more information, consumers can contact Northern Tool at (800) 222-5381 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

      This recall includes only those Model 191000 and 192000 compressors sold between January and May 2002.

      Northern Tool & Equipment Air Compressor Recall...

      Compaq Computer Batteries Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2000 --Compaq Computer Corp. is voluntarily recalling for replacement about 55,000 battery packs used with Compaq's Armada notebook computers. These battery packs can short circuit, causing them to overheat, release smoke and possibly catch fire.

      Compaq has received one report of a battery pack overheating, and damaging the notebook computer. No injuries were reported.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

      The recalled battery packs were sold with Compaq's Armada E500 and V300 notebook computers. Writing on the batteries include "Compaq" and "Assembled in Taiwan." The battery pack can be identified by a date code and serial number on the white label to the right of the battery connector.

      • Date code TCGK with a serial number from 00001 to 10500, 20001 to 21800, and 40001 to 83100, or
      • Date code TCHK with a serial number from 40001 to 44700

      Compaq dealers sold these battery packs worldwide with notebook computers and separately from June 2000 through July 2000. The notebook computers sold for between $1,800 and $3,800, and the individual batteries sold for about $165.

      Consumers should immediately stop using these battery packs and contact Compaq to learn how to discharge them and return them. Consumers with the recalled batteries will receive two free battery packs for each recalled battery pack they return. For more information, call Compaq at (800) 889-7613 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or go to the firm's battery recall website at http://www5.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/2000/pr2000102701.html.

      Compaq Computer Batteries Recalled...

      HP Inkjet Printer Power Cords Recalled

      WASHINGTON, March 5, 2002 -- Longwell Electronics is voluntarily recalling about 2.5 million power cord sets sold with inkjet printers from Hewlett-Packard Company. The connector can break, exposing electrical contacts and posing a shock hazard to consumers.

      No injuries or incidents have been reported. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

      The gray, two-wire power cord sets with a LS-7C connector were sold with the following HP printers: HP Deskjet 800 series and 900 series, HP Photosmart 1000 series, 1100 series, 1200 series, and 1300 series inkjet printers. The name "Longwell" is molded on the plug between the blades.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, (CPSC).

      Department, computer, office and electronic stores including Best Buy, CompUSA, Costco, Office Depot, Office Max, Staples and Wal-Mart stores sold the printers with the Longwell cord sets nationwide between April 2001 and February 2002 for between $100 and $400.

      Consumers should stop using these printers immediately and contact HP for a free replacement cord. For more information, consumers can contact HP at (877) 917-4378 anytime or visit the firm's web site at www.hp.com.

      HP Inkjet Printer Power Cords Recalled ...

      Champion Tools Power Strips Recalled

      WASHINGTON, Feb. 29, 2000 -- Frieder Inc., of Bedford Heights, Ohio, is recalling about 35,000 Champion Brand Tools 6-outlet power strips. It is a 125-volt power strip made in China, and bears no UL listing.

      The back of the strip has a date code indicating it was manufactured on 4/97. Writing on the cord includes "Chang RVV 300/500V." "Champion Quality Tools" and model number "10741" are written on the packaging. Discount outlets nationwide sold the power strips from January 1997 through July 1998 for about $3.

      The wiring in these power strips is undersized and poses shock, electrocution and fire hazards.

      Consumers should immediately stop using these power strips and return them to the store where purchased for a refund or send them to Frieder for a refund plus postage. For more information, consumers should call Frieder at (800) 321-8192 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

      Champion Tools Power Strips Recalled...

      Wal-Mart & Endar Recall Candles

      WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2001 --Endar Corp. and Wal-Mart Stores are voluntarily recalling 74,000 Ambria brand candle sets. The wax from the candles can drip and ignite the potpourri. Additionally, when the candles are in close proximity, they generate a significant amount of heat. Each of these hazards could lead to a fire, which could cause burn injuries to consumers.

      Wal-Mart has received no reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

      The 9-Piece Harvest Centerpiece Collection candle set contains seven candles (three white pillars, two red apple shaped novelty candles, and two yellow leaf shaped novelty candles), potpourri and a round 12-inch copper color plate.

      Wal-Mart stores nationwide sold these candles from September 1, 2001 through September 20, 2001 for about $10.

      Consumers should stop using the candle sets immediately and return them to any Wal-Mart store for a full refund. Consumers also can call Endar Corp. toll-free at (800) 562-9974 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or log on to the company's website at www.endar.com.

      Wal-Mart & Endar Recall Candles...

      Flat Rock Grills Recalled

      WASHINGTON, July 19, 2002 -- Flat Rock Grill Co. is voluntarily recalling about 1,800 gas grills. The glass casing of the thermometer displays attached to these grills can break or shatter, posing a risk of cuts or other serious injuries.

      The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Flat Rock Grill Co. has received six reports of the glass casing of the thermometers on these grills breaking. No injuries have been reported.

      These heavy-duty, stainless steel grills are Flat Rock Grill Shoreline Series Models 2000 and 3000. The model number is written on a label on the front of the grill. FRG is on the front of the grill. The grill has a thermometer display on the grill hood that measures 3-inches in diameter, and has a temperature range from 50 to 550 degrees. The thermometer display has "BBQ-1" or "BBQ Pit" Thermometer written within the glass casing.

      Independent retailers in the southeastern and south central U.S. and the firms web site sold these gas grills from July 1999 through July 2002 for about $1,200. Consumers should remove the thermometers on these grills immediately. To get a free replacement thermometer, call Flat Rock Grill Co. toll-free at (888) 308-7399 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Consumers also can go to the firms web site at www.flatrockgrill.com.

      Thermometers with the word "Trend" written within the casing are not included in the recall.

      Flat Rock Grills Recalled...

      Thrift Stores Selling Hazardous Products CPSC study finds 69percent of thrift stores sell products presenting a risk

      CPSC study finds 69percent of thrift stores sell products presenting a risk of death or injury

      WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 1999 -- Thrift stores are selling hazardous products that have been recalled, banned or do not meet current safety standards, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

      From May through September 1999, CPSC visited 301 randomly selected thrift stores nationwide. CPSC's study found that 69 percent were selling at least one hazardous product. The top three products found were children's jackets and sweatshirts with drawstrings presenting a strangulation hazard, hairdryers that do not protect against electrocution and cribs that do not meet current safety standards.

      Each year, CPSC recalls 250 to 300 hazardous products. CPSC gets recalled products off retail shelves, but cannot go into consumers' homes and remove them. Recalled products end up being donated or sold in the second-hand goods market, including thrift stores.

      "The products found pose a danger of death or serious injury to consumers," said CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. "Many consumers and thrift store operators may be unaware of recalls, bans and current safety standards of products offered for sale in the stores."

      CPSC found that thrift stores nationwide, including those run by national organizations and local and independent stores, sell the following hazardous products:

      • 51 percent sell children's jackets and sweatshirts with drawstrings, presenting a strangulation hazard.

      • 20 percent sell hair dryers without protection against electrocution.

      • 12 percent sell cribs that do not meet current federal and voluntary safety standards, presenting risks including entrapment and strangulation.

      • 10 percent sell recalled halogen torchiere floor lamps without wire or glass guards, presenting a fire hazard.

      • 7 percent sell recalled play yards and playpens with protruding hardware or collapsible top rails, presenting a strangulation hazard.

      • 4 percent sell recalled car seat carriers with handles that can unexpectedly disengage, causing the seat to flip forward and injure infants.

      • 3 percent sell recalled toy basketball sets with nets that present a strangulation hazard to children.

      • About 1 percent sell other hazardous products including banned lawn darts, recalled cedar chests and recalled bean bag chairs, all of which present injury and death hazards to children.

      CPSC is seeking a commitment from thrift stores to stop selling hazardous products. To help accomplish this, CPSC has prepared a Thrift Store Checklist (Texto Espaol) for thrift stores and shoppers, and model legislation for state governments.

      The checklist (Texto Espaol) includes information on how to contact CPSC to check on product recalls, bans and current safety standards. The checklist can be used as a guide when shopping at thrift stores. Thrift store owners and managers should use the checklist before accepting donations, consignments or purchasing inventory for the store. CPSC is distributing this checklist to the National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops (NARTS) and national organizations, including the Salvation Army and Goodwill. CPSC also is giving this information to state and local governments for distribution to area stores. To get a free copy of the checklist, visit CPSC's web site at www.cpsc.gov or send a postcard to Thrift Store Checklist, CPSC, Washington, DC 20207.

      CPSC is encouraging states to adopt model legislation prohibiting thrift stores from selling certain banned or recalled products. CPSC will distribute this model legislation to organizations such as the National Association of Attorneys General and the National Governors Association.

      Anyone who purchases a second-hand product should check with CPSC to determine if it has been banned, recalled or violates current safety standards, and to get information on the appropriate remedy. To receive recall notices directly, sign up for instant email notices at our web site www.cpsc.gov or send a fax with your name and fax number to (301) 504-0399.

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