Recalls in January 1970

January 13, 2009
Top Goods Trading is recalling about 38,000 flashing pacifiers which do not comply with federal safety standards. The pieces of the pacifier can separate, posing a choking hazard. The necklaces pose a strangulation hazard.

The recalled flashing pacifier has a yellow heart-shaped mouth guard and handle. There is a 15-inch cord attached to the handle. LED lights are activated by pushing the heart-shaped handle into the base of the pacifier.

They were sold at retail stores in the Los Angeles area from November 2007 through November 2008 for about 50 cents and were made in China.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled pacifier away from children and contact Top Goods Trading for a refund or exchange.

For additional information, contact Top Goods Trading collect at (213) 680-0388 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.

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

July 9, 2009
Wilton Industries is recalling about 142,000 Copco Harmony tea kettles. The lid on the tea kettle can come loose during handling, posing a burn hazard to the consumer.

The firm is aware of 25 incidents of the lid coming loose. Second-degree burns to hands and fingers have been reported.

This recall involves the Copco Harmony tea kettles. The kettles come in stainless steel brushed and polished finishes and enamel finishes in red, white, black, turquoise, orange, yellow and blue. Copco tea kettles in other styles are not included in the recall.

The tea kettles, made in China and Thailand, were sold by retailers nationwide from March 2006 through June 2009 for about $30.

Consumers should immediately stop using these tea kettles. If the consumer has a stainless tea kettle, contact Wilton for a free replacement lid. If the consumer has an enamel tea kettle, contact Wilton for a free replacement tea kettle or a refund.

For additional information, contact Wilton Industries, Inc. at (800) 794-5866 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Thursday, and between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. CT Friday, or visit the firms Web site at www.copco.com.

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

March 12, 2009
Pure Fishing Inc. is recalling about 2,600 Shakespeare Casting Game and Fishing Kits. The label on the fishing rod contains a surface coating containing high levels of lead in violation of the ban on lead in paint.

The recalled Shakespeare Casting Game and Fishing Kit consists of a red and blue rod and reel with red foam targets and hook. The label is found on the front of the reel and reads 'Casting Fun'.

The kits were sold by specialty fishing retailers nationwide from November 2008 through January 2009 for about $15. They were made in China.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled game away from children and call Pure Fishing for a free replacement product or full refund.

For additional information, contact Pure Fishing at (800) 466-5643 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.purefishing.com.

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

October 29, 2003

Wristwatch lighters and cigarette-shaped lighters distributed by Style Asia, Inc., are being recalled. The lighters do not have qualified child resistant mechanisms and pose a fire hazard to children.

The Wristwatch lighter is an actual digital wristwatch with a cigarette lighter incorporated into it. The Cigarette Shaped lighter is designed to resemble a filter tipped cigarette.

The lighters were sold nationwide primarily through internet sales.

Remedy: Return the lighters to Style Asia for a refund and discount coupon.

Consumer Contact: Call Style Asia toll free at (800) 522-7465 between 9 and 5 ET Monday through Friday.

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

September 17, 2009
Clarks Children's Shoes is recalling about 2,000 pairs of shoes because molded rubber pieces on the sole can detach, posing a choking hazard to infants and young children.

No incidents have been reported in the United States. In the United Kingdom there have been six reports of the rubber pieces detaching, including two reports of children mouthing the rubber piece. No injuries have been reported.

This recall involves Clarks childrens shoes sold under the crawlers and hazy daze style names. The crawlers were sold in infant sizes 2 to 3 1/2; and the hazy daze in sizes 4 to 6 1/2. Clarks is printed on the sole underneath the heel and the words Clarks First Shoes is printed on a multi-colored label inside the shoes heel area. The following names and model numbers are included in this recall.

The shoes were sold at Clarks retail stores nationwide from February 2009 through July 2009 for between $35 and $40. They were made in Vietnam.

Consumers should immediately take the shoes away from children and return them to the nearest Clarks store for a full refund.

For additional information, contact C & J Clark America at (800) 425-2757 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firms Web site at www.clarkskidsusa.com.

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

FTC and States Launch Another Crackdown on Telemarketers Offering Credit Cards and Loans That Never Arrive

In another aggressive sweep targeting corporations and individuals that promise loans and credit cards for an advance fee, but never deliver them, the Federal Trade Commission, state Attorneys General from six states and state banking officialstoday announced the results of the latest crackdown on telemarketing companies and individuals allegedly engaging in advance fee loan scams. This sweep also includes the participation of Canadian law enforcement authorities who have taken criminal actions against Canadian advance fee loan scam operators who prey on American citizens. "OPERATION ADVANCE FEE LOAN (AFL)" - a multi-agency law enforcement sweep against telemarketers of fraudulent advance fee credit schemes - is a follow-up to two previous sweeps announced in 1996 and 1997. "Operation AFL" involves eight cases filed and/or settled by the Commission, and ten cases filed by state Attorney Generals, including three cease and desist orders issued by state banking officials.

"Advance fee loan scams are especially appalling because they prey on the most vulnerable consumers who are in need of credit or a loan," said Jodie Bernstein, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "Working with the states and our Canadian partners, we are stopping lenders who illegally charge consumers a fee for the promise of a loan. Our message to these disreputable lenders is, we will track you down and stop your illegal practices. Our message to consumers is, don't pay for a promise - it's illegal for lenders to ask you to pay for credit before you get it."

According to the FTC, fraudulent advance fee loan schemes prey on particularly vulnerable consumers - the unemployed, the working poor, those who have bad credit ratings, or those in immediate need of money for emergencies. Most advance fee loan telemarketers snare consumers through cold calls, or in response to advertisements in various local newspapers, on cable television, on the Internet and through direct mail. Ads promising "money to loan ... regardless of credit history" lure consumers into paying fees that range from $25 to several hundred dollars in advance of receiving "guaranteed" loans. In many instances, consumers never receive the promised loans or credit cards, and either never hear from the loan companies again or are merely sent credit card applications.

Under the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule, which went into effect December 31, 1995, a telemarketer who guarantees consumers a loan or other form of credit, or who claims he or she can arrange such credit for a consumer, is prohibited from asking consumers to pay any money before they receive the loan or credit. The rule empowers each of the state Attorneys General to file actions in federal District Court and seek an order that applies nationwide against violators of the rule. Some of the cases announced today (see attached list) allege rule violations, others allege violations of the FTC Act or state laws that prohibit unfair or deceptive practices. These latest law enforcement actions show a continuing coordinated effort among domestic and international law enforcement agencies to combat such fraud.

In all of the FTC cases announced today, the defendants were charged with violating the FTC Act and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) by misrepresenting that consumers would receive a credit card for an advance fee; by charging a fee in advance of consumers receiving the promised credit card; and in two of the cases, misrepresenting that consumers would receive a refund of their fee if they did not get the promised credit card.

ADVANCE FEE LOAN SWEEP LAW ENFORCEMENT

The FTC filed its actions against:

American Consumer Membership Services, Inc., and Darryl Smith, alleging that the defendants fraudulently telemarketed, through cold calls, advance fee credit cards to low income consumers and those with credit problems. After paying a $69 fee, which was debited from their checking accounts, consumers received vouchers, coupons and other offers, and occasionally credit card applications with lists of banks to apply to for secured or unsecured credit cards, with additional application fees ranging from $20 to $79.95. Some consumers received nothing at all from the defendants after their checking accounts were debited. Few received the promised refunds.

1263523 Ontario, Inc., doing business as Consumer Credit Services, Donald M. Davies, Lloyd Charles Prudenza and David Seymour Wells, alleging that the defendants telemarketed advance fee credit cards to consumers with poor credit histories, for an up-front fee of $159 that also was debited from their checking accounts. Consumers never received the promised credit cards. If they received anything from the company at all, it was information on how to improve their credit rating, lists of banks that market secured credit cards, and/or bundles of worthless coupons. Most of the consumers never received a refund.

Modern Credit Financial Services, Inc., Matthew A. Hammack and Robert Hansel, alleging that the defendants, through cable tv ads and telemarketing, promised advance fee credit cards for $89, payable through a bank draft from their checking accounts. After making the payment, consumers received materials on credit management, a 100 percent guarantee certificate, and information about the two banks that were supposed to issue the credit cards. Additional requirements and charges were imposed if the consumer attempted to apply to the banks for the credit cards. Most consumers did not receive a credit card or a refund.

Credit National, Inc. and Mark Wolf, doing business as Credit America, alleging that the defendants marketed "guaranteed approved" credit cards and lines of credit to consumers in print and Internet ads, as well as via direct mail, for a $28 "application fee" and invited consumers to call an "800" number. Consumers who called the number in response to the ads were sent a packet of materials containing written guarantees of unsecured credit cards regardless of past credit history, along with applications requiring the $28 fee. Consumers who responded by sending the fee received various credit card applications or nothing at all, rather than the promised credit cards.

At the request of the FTC, the federal District Courts in three of the four cases have issued temporary restraining orders to halt the deceptive practices and freeze the defendants' assets pending trial. In American Consumer Membership Services, the FTC has filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, and a hearing has been scheduled for August 27, 1999.

The Commission also announced today that staff had obtained three default judgments against advance fee loan telemarketers in Georgia, Concepts and Ideas, Source One, Inc., and GBS Group, and reached a settlement agreement with another advance fee loan company, Franklin Credit Services, Inc..

In an earlier proceeding, the FTC, in conjunction with the state of Arkansas, brought an action against SureCheK Systems, Inc., alleging that SureChek was engaged in a deceptive scheme to defraud consumers nationwide through the telemarketing of advance fee credit cards. In addition, the FTC brought separate actions against Bill Owen d/b/a Source One; George B. Schewe, d/b/a GBS Group; and Jarrell Andre Goolsby d/b/a Concepts & Ideas. Defendants Owen, Schewe, and Goolsby provided third-party telemarketing (Op AFL--08/12/99) services to the defendants in the SureCheK matter. These telemarketers solicited business on behalf of SureCheK, using SureCheK's name, and while under contract with and utilizing scripts provided by SureCheK, misrepresented that consumers would receive a major credit card in exchange for an advance fee with absolutely no security deposit, regardless of their past credit history. Despite paying the fee, the consumers did not receive the credit cards as promised.

The Southeast Regional Office (located in Atlanta) of the FTC also brought an earlier action against Loan byPhone Financing, Inc., d/b/a Burlington Credit Services; Action Credit Services, Inc.; ABCO, Inc.; Beaumont Credit Services, Inc.; Budget Credit Services, Inc.; Hunter Credit Corporation; Jodi Wolin; and Laurence J. Smith, Esq. According to the FTC, the defendants sold a "debt consolidation" service, and consumers who called were led to believe that the company was offering low interest loans to enable consumers to consolidate their debts. Consumers were told that, after an initial sign-up "origination fee," the company would pay off the consumers' debts, leaving consumers with only the monthly loan payment. Contrary to the representations made during the call, the defendants did not provide a loan to the consumer, nor did they pay off the outstanding debts. In the proposed consent orders to settle the charges, the defendants would be banned from engaging in, or assisting others engaged in, any credit related services, and would be prohibited from making the representations alleged in the complaint. Under the terms of her proposed settlement, defendant Wolin, who created the scheme and formed the corporations used to further it, would pay consumer redress totaling approximately $185,000. Defendant Smith would pay $10,000 in redress over a period of 18 months.

James Michael Christensen, principal owner of Franklin Credit Services, Inc., and Amansco Credit Services, Inc., has agreed to pay $100,000 for consumer redress or disgorgement, and agreed to be permanently banned from telemarketing as part of an agreement with the FTC. Christensen and his companies purportedly offered low-interest, debt consolidation loans for a one-time fee. Instead of receiving a loan, consumers were offered a bill paying service that required them to pay an additional fee, the FTC alleged. The proposed settlement, which requires the court's approval, would prohibit Christensen from: accepting fees in advance when representing a high likelihood that a person will be receiving a loan or other extension of credit; making certain misrepresentations and non-disclosures in marketing credit and credit-related goods or services; and selling or transferring customer lists. On June 7, 1999, a default judgment was entered against corporate defendants Franklin Credit and Amansco Credit.

U.S. military personnel and their families were targeted by the advance fee loan con artists through advertisements for these scams that appear in civilian newspapers circulated on U.S. military bases. "We are pleased to be able to work with the armed services in putting a stop to the despicable practice of targeting scams at the military community," Bernstein said.

CANADIAN LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY

Under The Loan Brokers Act of Ontario, enacted in1994, the Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations ("MCCR") for the Government of Ontario was authorized to bring criminal charges against unscrupulous "up front fee loan scam companies" and their owners. Within the past two years, the Investigation Unit of MCCR has worked with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Milton Detachment and Toronto Police Services Fraud Squad to close down over 120 of the fraudulent advance fee loan companies operating in Canada and marketing to Canadian and U.S. consumers, and to return thousands of dollars in advance fees.

In the last three months, the following Canadian advance fee loan companies, all located in Toronto, Ontario, have been shut down by Canadian law enforcement authorities in conjunction with the Commission's sweep: Belmont Associates, Berkley Associates, Northwind Traders, Starline Traders, Globe Securities, Q.A. Marketing, and North Star Trading. Each of these companies promoted advance fee loans via telephone to American citizens exclusively, and they and their owners were charged with criminal fraud. Their cases are now pending before the Canadian courts.

OPERATION AFL CONSUMER EDUCATION

The FTC and the state Attorneys General, along with our education campaign partners, The American Financial Services Association Education Foundation, The National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators, and The Navy Personnel Command, offer the following tips for consumers to keep in mind before responding to ads that promise easy credit, regardless of credit history:

• Legitimate lenders never "guarantee" or say that you are likely to get a loan or a credit card before you apply, especially if you have bad credit, no credit, or a bankruptcy;

• If you apply for a real estate loan, it is accepted and common practice for lenders to request payment for a credit report or appraisal;

• Never give your credit card account number, bank account information, or Social Security Number over the telephone or Internet unless you are familiar with the company and know why the information is needed; and

• If you don't have the credit offer in hand - or confirmed in writing - and you are asked to pay, don't do it. It's fraud and it's against the law.

The Commission is also alerting commercial mail receiving agents (e.g., Mail Boxes, Etc.), often used as "mail drops" by advance fee loan scam operators, that they may be involved in a fraudulent scheme when they are asked by a mailbox holder to forward large volumes of mail to other addresses within the United States or to other countries. Additionally, the FTC is writing to more than 7500 publishers of classified ads through the country to encourage them to warn their readers that ads promising loans or extensions of credit are likely to be scams.

The FTC's Northeast Regional Office (located in New York) coordinated this project for the FTC.

The Commission votes to file the four complaints in the appropriate federal district court were 4-0. American Consumer Membership Services was filed in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of New York, in Binghamton, NY on August 5, 1999. Consumer Credit Services was filed in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, in New York City on August 5, 1999. Modern Credit Financial Services, Inc. was filed in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division, on August 5, 1999; and Credit National was filed in the U.S. District Court, Central District of California, Western Division, in Los Angeles, on August 5, 1999. The settlement in the matter of Franklin Credit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Ft. Lauderdale Division, on August 10, 1999. The Commission vote to file the settlement was 4-0.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has "reason to believe" that the law has been or is being violated, and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The complaint is not a finding or ruling that the defendants have actually violated the law. The case will be decided by the court.

NOTE: A consent decree, such as in the Franklin Credit matter, is for settlement purposes only and does not constitute an admission by the defendant of a law violation. Consent decrees have the force of law when signed by the judge.

Copies of the news release are available from the FTC's web site at http://www.ftc.gov and copies of the consumer education materials, as well as the complaints, are also available from the FTC's Consumer Response Center, Room 130, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20580; 202-FTC-HELP (202-382-4357); TDD for the hearing impaired 202-326-2502. To find out the latest news as it is announced, call the FTC NewsPhone recording at 202-326-2710.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Office of Public Affairs
202-326-2180

American Consumer Membership Services
Consumer Credit Services 
(FTC File No. 992 3031; Civil Action No. 99 CV 1206 -- American Consumer Membership)
(FTC File No. 992 3036; Civil Action No. 99 CV 8679 -- Consumer Credit Services)

Rhonda McLean or Robin E. Eichen or Carole Paynter
Northeast Regional Office
One Bowling Green, Suite 318
New York, New York 10004
212-607-2811

Modern Credit Financial Service
(FTC File No. 992 3218; Civil Action No. 3-99 CV 1756-G -- Modern Credit Financial Services)

Thomas Carter or Gary Kennedy
Southwest Regional Office
1999 Bryan Street, Suite 2150
Dallas, Texas 75201
214-979-9350 or 214-979-9379

Credit National
(FTC File No. 992 3223; Civil Action No. 99 CV 07989 -- Credit National)

Thomas Syta or Bret Smart
Western Regional Office
10877 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 700
Los Angeles, California 90024
310-824-4324 or 310-824-4366

Franklin Credit
(FTC File No. 982 3550 Civil Action No. 98 CV 7375-G -- Franklin Credit)

Andrea Foster or Ronald Laitsch
Southeastern Regional Office
Suite 5M35, Midrise Bldg., 60 Forsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
(404) 656-1356 or (404) 656-1358

CANADIAN CONTACTS:

Helen Czerniak or Dermot Jennings
Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations
250 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON
Canada M5B 2N5
(416) 326-8623 or (416) 326-8625

(Operation AFL)

Pick the category that interests you.

• Automotive

• Children's Clothing, Toys & Childcare Supplies

• Food Products

• Household Products

• Sporting Goods
  

Or search for a specific brand name or product.

April 8, 2005

WASHINGTON, March 16, 2000 -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning against using baby mattresses and mattress pads that encourage the potentially deadly practice of placing babies to sleep on their stomachs.

The products claim to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). But

CPSC said that despite the claims, it is not aware of any evidence that babies can safely be placed to sleep on their stomachs on these products, or that using the products will reduce the risk of SIDS. Parents and caregivers should never put babies to sleep on their stomachs, whether on these products or any others, the agency said..

The following products make the claims through their advertising and marketing, including their instructions and packaging. Due to the efforts of CPSC, these firms have stopped manufacturing and distributing the products. CPSC also has requested that retailers stop selling the products and remove them from store shelves immediately.

According to CPSC, the risk of SIDS is significantly reduced by placing babies to sleep on their backs in a crib that meets current safety standards and has a firm, tight-fitting mattress and no soft bedding.

There are about 3,000 SIDS deaths per year -- a reduction of about 38 percent in the 5 years following the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation that babies be placed to sleep on their backs.

The four products involved in CPSC's action have been sold for about $30 to $100 in baby, drug and discount department stores; in catalogs; and on the Internet, including the following web sites:

• www.sidsprevent.com

• www.kidsafeprod.com and

• www.flashmall.com.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is reviewing the products and their claims.

• Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills, and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards to younger children.
  

• For infants, toddlers, and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts which could pose a fatal choking hazard.
  

• Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly secured eyes, noses, and other potential small parts.
  

• For all children under age 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.
  

• Do not purchase electric toys with heating elements for children under age 8.
  

• Be a label reader. Look for labels that give age recommendations and use that information as a guide.
  

• Check instructions for clarity. They should be clear to you, and when appropriate, to the child.
  

• Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys, which can cause suffocation, before they become deadly playthings.

By using common sense and these safety suggestions, holiday shoppers can make informed decisions when purchasing toys for children.

WASHINGTON, August 1, 2000 -- The Coleman Co. is voluntarily recalling about 86,000 Coleman Gas grills. A sharp edge on the metal heat shield below the control panel of the grill can cause lacerations to the hands, wrists or arms.

Coleman has received six reports from consumers who received cuts or lacerations on their hands, wrists, or arms from the heat shield when they were accessing the propane cylinder underneath the grill.

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recalled grills are green and black and have a red Coleman emblem on the grill's cover. The grill has a wheeled cart with two side tables or one side table and a side burner, and features a warming rack above the grilling surface. Only grills with series numbers 2000 or 3000 are included in the recall. The series numbers are on the face plate of the grill, located on the right hand side of the control panel.

Home improvement and discount department stores sold the grills nationwide from January through April 2000 for between $350 and $500.

Consumers should immediately contact Coleman toll free at (877) 846-1070 anytime to receive a free repair kit or visit the Coleman Grill web site. The repair kit contains a plastic sheath to cover the sharp edge on the heat shield.

• Toyota Recalls 2011-2012 Sienna Vans
• Toyota Recalls 53,000 Priuses to Fix Power Steering
• Toyota Recalls Highlander, Rav4 Models
• Toyota Recalls Lexus Models to Check Fuel Pressure Sensor
• Toyota Recalls Tundra to Fix Tire Pressure Monitor
• Toyotas Recalls Some Sienna, Venza Vehicles
• 2005-2008 Toyota Corolla, Matrix
• 2000-2004 Toyota Avalons
• 2003 Toyota Sequoia SUVs
• 1998-2010 Toyota Sienna Mini-Vans
• 2010 Toyota Tundra Four-Wheel Drive Trucks
• Toyota Tacoma 2010 4-Wheel Drive Trucks
• 2010 Toyota Prius
• 2008-10 Highlanders
• 2009-2010 Corollas, Venzas, and Matrixes
• 2007-10 Camrys
• 2009-10 Corollas
• 2009-10 RAV4s
• 2009-10 Matrixes
• 2005-10 Avalons
• 2010 Highlanders
• 2007-10 Tundras
• 2008-10 Sequoias
• Another 2.3 Million Toyota, Lexus Models Recalled
• Toyota Recalls Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Lexus Models to Fix Runaway Acceleration
• Toyota Recalling 110,000 Tundra Pickups
• Toyota Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra
• 2008-2009 Toyota Scion XD
• 2008-2009 Toyota Scion XD
• 2006-2007 Toyota Yaris
• 2004 Toyota Sienna
• Toyota Siennas Recalled to Fix Liftgate
• Toyota Highlander, Highlander Hybrids
• Feds Probe Unintended Acceleration in Toyota Sienna Minivan
• Toyota Matrix & Corolla
• Toyota Recalls Some 2007 Tundra Pickups
• Toyota Extends Sienna Liftgate Warranty
• Toyota Recalls Camry, Lexus Floor Mats, NHTSA Warns Prius Owners
• Toyota, NHTSA Investigate 360,000 Sienna Vans
• Airbag Danger Prompts Scion TC Recall
• Toyota Recalls 533,000 Trucks for Failed Ball Joints
• Toyota Recalls Near 800,000 for July
• Toyota Tundra Recalled to Disable Front Passenger Airbag Switch
• Toyota Recalls Highlander, Lexus RX SUVs
• Toyota Scion tC Moonroof Failures Probed
• NHTSA Probes 600,000 Toyota Trucks and Vans
• Toyota FJ Cruiser Recalled For Tire Flaw
• Massive Toyota Recall Affects Nearly One Million
• Toyota Recalls Prius for Steering Defect

For more information, consumers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153) or at www.safercar.gov.

This listing may not include every recall. See www.safercar.gov for additional recalls.

WASHINGTON, D.C.,Aug. 27, 1999 -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Graco Childrens Products Inc., is recalling about 100,000 activity trays and bath sets with suction cups for repair. The suction cups can detach, presenting a choking hazard to young children.

Graco has received four reports of children starting to choke after putting the suction cups in their mouths, including one incident that required use of the Heimlich maneuver.

The activity trays and bath sets being recalled are the Graco and Children On The Go brand Stroller Snack and Activity Trays, Bathtime Activity Trays, and Bathtime Toy Netting products.

The activity trays attach with suction cups to tiled or smooth surfaces. There are four toys attached to each tray. The tray toys are removable and interchangeable with other Mix N MoveTM toys, which are purchased separately. The Stroller Snack and Activity Trays toys include a toucan, rolling ball, star and dog. The Bathtime Activity Trays toys include an octopus, u-tube, spinning ball and paddlewheel. "Graco" or "Children On The Go" is on the underside of the tray.

The Bathtime Toy Netting consists of a clam soapholder and fish washcloth holder that attaches with suction cups to tiled or smooth surfaces. A net, used to store toys, hangs between the clam and fish. "Graco" is on the back of the clam and fish.

Discount, department and juvenile product stores nationwide, including Toys "R" Us and Sears, sold these activity trays and bath sets from January 1998 until August 1999 for about $10 to $15.

Consumers should stop using these products immediately. To receive a free repair kit, consumers should call Graco at (800) 446-1366 anytime or access the companys web site. Consumers also can write to Customer Affairs, Graco Childrens Products Inc., P.O. Box 100, Elverson, PA 19520.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 18, 2002 -- IKEA is voluntarily recalling 57,000 stuffed teddy bears. The plastic beads inside of the bears could come out of the seams, posing an aspiration hazard to young children who could inhale the small beads.

IKEA has not received any report of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled SNUTTIG Bear Soft Toys are red, yellow, blue and black and are about six inches tall. The bears have a contrasting color on the nose, ears, and feet. The name "SNUTTIG," the model number 700- 371-56, the manufacturer code 17596 and the words "Made in Indonesia" are all printed on the product label.

IKEA stores nationwide sold the bears from August 2001 through September 2002 for about $2.

Consumers should take these bears away from young children immediately and return them to an IKEA store for a $5 gift card towards another IKEA product. For more information, consumers should contact IKEA at (888) 966-4532) anytime or visit the company's website at www.ikea-usa.com

WASHINGTON, June 12, 2002 -- Brookdale International Systems is voluntarily recalling about 27,400 emergency escape smoke hoods that may have been purchased for use against tear gas or chemical warfare agents.

The smoke hood is a one- time emergency use, personal safety device that provides quick, temporary protection from smoke in the event of a fire. In some instances, consumers purchased the smoke hoods for protection from tear gas or chemical warfare agents, but the smoke hoods should be used only to provide protection from smoke caused by fires.

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSC and Brookdale are not aware of any incidents involving these emergency escape smoke hoods. The recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

This recall involves the EVAC-U8 emergency escape smoke hoods. The smoke hood is a bright green plastic cylinder with a clear red top. The cylinder is about 5- inches tall. The words "EVAC-U8 Emergency Escape Smoke Hood" are printed on the cylinder along with the serial number and expiration date. Recalled smoke hoods have a serial number of A97,921 or higher, and an expiration date of May 1, 2002 or later.

Web-based distributors, catalogues, and travel stores sold these smoke hoods from May 1997 through April 2002 for about $70.

Consumers who purchased the EVAC-U8 emergency escape smoke hood for protection from tear gas and chemical warfare agents may return the product to Brookdale International Systems, Inc. 1-8755 Ash Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 6P3 for a refund, including the cost of postage. For more information consumers can contact Brookdale International Systems at (800) 459-3822 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2000 -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Advance Thermo Control (ATC), of Hong Kong, is voluntarily recalling 152,000 baby wipe warmers distributed by Prince Lionheart Inc., of Santa Maria, Calif.

A wipe warmer is an electric appliance that warms baby wipes. Cracks in the interior tub of these wipe warmers can allow water to contact the electrical components. This can result in consumers receiving an electric shock.

Prince Lionheart reports receiving four reports of electric shocks to date.

The recall involves Prince Lionheart Baby Wipe Warmers with style number 0224 and date codes between 9803 and 9901 with cracked tubs. The style number and date code are written on the bottom of the units. The wipe warmers are white plastic boxes that are 9 inches long, 6 inches wide and 4.75 inches high. "PRINCE LIONHEART" is written on the lid of the warmers. A orange light is located on the front of the warmers to indicate when it is on. "Santa Maria, CA USA" and "MADE IN CHINA" are written on the bottom of the units.

Toy, department and baby specialty stores, including Toys "R" Us and Burlington Coat Factory, and mail order catalogs, sold these wipe warmers nationwide from February 1998 through December 1999 for about $25.

Consumers should immediately unplug the warmers, remove the wipes, and check to see if the interior tub is cracked. If so, stop using the warmer immediately, and call ATC for information on receiving a free replacement unit. If the tub of the wipe warmer is not cracked, the unit is not part of the recall, and consumers can continue to use the appliance. For more information, contact ATC at (888) 843-8718 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

WASHINGTON, May 29, 2001 -- Garden Way Inc. is recalling about 2,800 trimmers/mowers. The trimmer heads, which control the cutting cords, can split and detach, posing a serious injury risk to consumers.

Garden Way has received 38 reports of trimmer heads splitting or detaching, resulting in two reports of toe fractures and five reports of bruised feet.

The recalled trimmers/mowers were sold under the TROY-BILT and GARDEN WAY BY TROY-BILT brand names. The brand name is on a shield in front of the engine. The model and serial numbers are located on the deck behind the left wheel when viewed from the operator's position. The recalled models are the 52063 and 52064 Troy-Bilt brand and the 52067 Garden Way by Troy-Bilt brand. The serial number ranges are:

WASHINGTON, May 17, 2001 -- Child Craft Industries is voluntarily recalling about 4,300 changing tables. Some changing table joints were not properly glued and can separate, presenting a fall hazard to babies.

Child Craft has received six reports of the changing tables falling apart, including one report of a baby starting to fall from a collapsing table when she was caught by her mother. No injuries have been reported.

The changing table is made of beech wood and comes in a variety of colors including white, honey oak, natural and cherry finishes. The table measures about 38 inches high by 35 inches wide by 20 inches deep. There are two labels on one of the rails of the changing table. One label is gold and reads in part "Child Craft Industries" and the other label is stamped in black ink and reads in part "FoppsPedretti, Made in Italy."

Department and specialty stores nationwide, including Sears and Burlington Coat Factory, sold the changing tables from August 1998 through April 2001 for about $150.

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

Consumers should stop using the recalled changing tables immediately and call Child Craft at (866) 423-3114 between 8:30a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to receive information on participating in this recall. Consumers also can visit the firm's website at www.childcraftind.com.

WASHINGTON, March 20, 2000 --
InSTEP LLC is recalling about 44,000 jogging strollers in cooperation with the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC). The stroller's brake can fail, causing the stroller to unexpectedly roll away.

InSTEP LLC has received five reports of brakes failing. No injuries have been reported.

Location of manufacturing date & model number

Burlington Coat Factory, J.C. Penney, Healthrider, The Sports Authority and Target stores nationwide, among others, sold the strollers from December 1998 through July 1999 for about $100 for a single jogger and $250 for a double jogger.

Consumers should stop using the strollers immediately and contact InSTEP LLC to receive a free, easy-to-install repair kit. To order the repair kit or for more information, call InSTEP LLC at (800) 242-6110 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday, or access the company's web site at http://www.instep.net/.

The recall involves InSTEP and HEALTHRIDER brand single and double jogging strollers manufactured from December 1998 through July 1999 with the model numbers: ZS100, ZD200, ZS100WS, ZD200WS, ZS100HR, ZD200HR, PR100 or PR200. The manufacturing date, written as T "month" R "year" I, is located on a sticker on the lower cross tube (for example T01R99I is January 1999). "InSTEP" and the model number also are on the sticker.

InSTEP model numbers ZS100, ZD200, ZS100WS, ZD200WS, PR100 and PR200 have a blue and green seat, and green canopy. "ZII" is on the top and "InSTEP" is on the front of the stroller. HEALTHRIDER model numbers ZS100HR and ZD200HR have a blue and gray seat, and blue canopy. "HEALTHRIDER" is on the top and front of the stroller.

Burlington Coat Factory, J.C. Penney, Healthrider, The Sports Authority and Target stores nationwide, among others, sold the strollers from December 1998 through July 1999 for about $100 for a single jogger and $250 for a double jogger. Consumers should stop using the strollers immediately and contact InSTEP LLC to receive a free, easy-to-install repair kit. To order the repair kit or for more information, call InSTEP LLC at (800) 242-6110 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday, or access the company's web site at www.instep.net.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3, 2002 -- Kent International is voluntarily recalling about 28,000 "Midget Racer" mini-bicycles. The front fork assembly on these mini-bicycles can loosen or break, and cause the rider to lose control and crash.

Kent International has not received any reports of injuries or incidents relating to the front forks on these mini-bicycles breaking. This recall is being conducted to prevent possible injuries.

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

The "Midget Racer" mini-bicycle is yellow with 8-inch black rubber tires, black seat and black handgrips. The mini-bicycle is about 31- inches long and 23-inches high. "MIDGET RACER" and "KENT" are written in red lettering on the frame of the bicycle.

Discount department, bicycle, wholesale club and toy stores sold these mini-bicycles in New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Minnesota and Massachusetts from October 2001 through November 2001 for about $70.

Consumers should stop using these Midget Racer mini-bicycles immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a refund or to receive a replacement mini- bicycle. For further information, call Kent International at (800) 451-5368 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Kent previously notified many of the consumers who purchased the recalled mini-bicycles about the recall, but about 2,200 of the mini- bicycles still have not been returned.

All Kent mini-bicycles have black plastic caps on the tops of the front-wheel fork. Kent mini-bicycles with black plastic caps covering the chrome portion of the tops and sides of the front-wheel fork are not included in this recall.