One of the deadliest risks faced by motorists is the risk of a rollover accident -- particularly for those who drive SUVs, minivans and trucks, which tend to have a higher center of gravity and a greater propensity to tip. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 280,000 rollover accidents are reported each year. Those rollovers kill more than 10,000 motorists annually.
Continue Reading...The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding persulfates -- common ingredients in denture cleansers -- and has asked manufacturers of denture cleansers to include a warning in the label about their use of persulfates. The ingredients are now known to cause allergic reactions in some users. The agency is also recommending that manufacturers begin searching for viable alternatives to persulfates. The chemicals are used in most denture cleansers to promote the cleaning and bleaching process.
According to the FDA, allergic reactions to persulfates don't always occur after the first use, and may not occur until after many years of use. Additionally, the symptoms of an allergic reaction may not appear for minutes or even hours after use of the cleansers. Those symptoms may include irritation, tissue damage, rash, hives, gum tenderness, breathing problems, and even low blood pressure.
Continue Reading...The Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) -- a consumer advocacy division of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) -- has released the 2008 edition of its Consumer Action Handbook. The handbook is designed to empower consumers to interact productively with vendors and businesses and help all people to become smarter shoppers.
Continue Reading...A recent study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) demonstrates that high levels of formaldehyde have been found in some travel trailers provided to disaster victims by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). There is some reason to believe that long-term exposure to formaldehyde could lead to serious health problems such as cancer. Unfortunately, travel trailers are not the only places where formaldehyde exposure could be a danger. To contribute to public understanding regarding the industrial uses of formaldehyde and its risks, the National Cancer Institute has issued the following fact sheet with questions and answers related to formaldehyde exposure:
Continue Reading...While the topics of water safety and drowning prevention typically receive some public attention during summer months, there are many people who prefer to use hot tubs, whirlpools and spas throughout the winter, when the weather is at its coldest. Although winter can be one of the most enjoyable seasons for hot tub use, it is equally dangerous. To help prevent personal injuries related to hot tubs, whirlpools and spas, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers the following historical data and recommendations for children and adults alike:
Continue Reading...According to an estimate by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are 20,000,000 unsafe cribs/play yards either in use or in storage. It's important that parents and other care givers check for safety before putting a baby into a portable crib or play yard.
The following crib and play yard safety checklist from the CPSC is labeled as a hotel and motel safety checklist. However, checking for these safety hazards is common sense advice that should be applied to any crib or play yard that is expected to be used.
"Check the crib for the following safety hazards:
| 1. Crib has been recalled (check on CPSC's web site). | ___Yes | ___No |
| 2. Crib slats are more than 23/8 inches (60 mm) apart. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 3. Slats are loose, missing, or cracked. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 4. Mattress is too loose -- more than two finger-widths between the edge of the mattress and the crib side. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 5. Corner posts are higher than 1/16th inch (11/2 mm). | ___Yes | ___No |
| 6. There are cutouts in the headboard or foot board. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 7. Drop-side latches could be easily released by baby. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 8. Screws or bolts that secure crib components are loose. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 9. Mattress support is not securely attached to head/foot board. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 10. Crib is provided with a normal sheet instead of a crib sheet. | ___Yes | ___No |
| 11. Crib is provided with a pillow, comforter, or soft bedding. | ___Yes | ___No |
Additional comments or concerns:
_______________________________________________________________Note: If any item receives a "yes" response, the crib should be removed from service until it is repaired or replaced.
Mesh Cribs/Play Yards:
Play yard brand name and model # ___________________________________
Check the mesh crib/play yard for the following hazards:
| 1. Mesh crib/play yard has been recalled (check on CPSC's web site). | ___Yes | ___No |
| 2. Mesh has large weave (1/4 inch openings or greater). | ___Yes | ___No ___NA |
| 3. Mesh has tears, holes, or loose threads. | ___Yes | ___No ___NA |
| 4. Mesh is not securely attached to top rail and floor plate. | ___Yes | ___No ___NA |
| 5. Top rail cover has tears or holes. | ___Yes | ___No ___NA |
| 6. If staples are used, some are missing, loose or exposed. | ___Yes | ___No ___NA |
| 7. Mesh crib/play yard is provided with a pillow, comforter, or other soft bedding. | ___Yes | ___No |
Additional comments or concerns:
_______________________________________________________________Note: If any item receives a "yes" response, the crib should be removed from service until it is repaired or replaced.
For additional safety information on cribs and other children's products, visit CPSC's web site (www.cpsc.gov) or call its toll-free hotline (800/638-2772)."
Continue Reading...The holiday season is a time of travel and a time when many households accommodate out-of-town visitors. As available beds become more scarce, many homeowners employ inflatable mattresses to accommodate additional guests. Those inflatable mattresses are too soft for sleeping infants, however, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning that the mattresses are safe only for adults and older children.
Continue Reading...According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), General Electric is recalling approximately 92,000 microwave ovens. The CPSC notice is reproduced below in its entirety.
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 5, 2007 Release #08-110 | GE’s Recall Hotline: (888) 240-2745 |
Name of Product: Built-in Combination Wall and Microwave Ovens
Units: About 92,000
Manufacturer: GE Consumer & Industrial, of Louisville, Ky.
Hazard: The door switch in the microwave oven can overheat and ignite plastic components in the control area, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The lower thermal oven does not pose a hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: GE is aware of 35 incidents of minor property damage and one incident in which a fire damaged adjacent kitchen cabinets. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recall includes GE combination microwave and conventional built-in wall ovens sold under the following brand names: GE, GE Profile® and Kenmore. The ovens were sold in white, black, bisque and stainless steel. The brand name is printed on the lower left corner on the front of the microwave door. The following model and serial numbers can be found inside the microwave oven on the left interior wall.
| Recalled Models | Serial number begins with: | |
|---|---|---|
| GE / GE Profile | JKP85B0A3BB, JKP85B0D1BB, JKP85W0A3WW, JKP85W0D1WW, JKP86B0F1BB, JKP86C0F1CC, JKP86S0F1SS, JKP86W0F1WW, JT965B0F1BB, JT965C0F1CC, JT965S0F1SS, JT965W0F1WW, JTP85B0A2BB, JTP85B0A3BB, JTP85B0A4BB, JTP85B0A5BB, JTP85B0D1BB, JTP85W0A2WW, JTP85W0A3WW, JTP85W0A4WW, JTP85W0A5WW, JTP85W0D1WW, JTP86B0F1BB, JTP86C0F1CC, JTP86S0F1SS, JTP86W0F1WW, JTP95B0A2BB, JTP95B0A3BB, JTP95B0A4BB, JTP95B0A5BB, JTP95B0D1BB, JTP95W0A2WW, JTP95W0A3WW, JTP95W0A4WW, JTP95W0A5WW, JTP95W0D1WW | AZ, DZ, FZ, GZ, HZ, LZ, MZ, RZ, SZ, TZ, VZ, ZZ, AA, DA, FA, GA, HA, LA, MA, RA, SA, TA, VA, ZA, AD, DD, FD, GD, HD, LD, MD, RD, SD, TD, VD, ZD, AF, DF, FF, GF, HF, LF, MF, RF, SF, TF, VF, ZF |
| Kenmore (All model numbers start with 911) | 41485991, 41485992, 41485993, 41485994, 41489991, 41489992, 41489993, 41489994, 49485992, 49489992, 47692100, 47699100, 47862100, 47869100, 47812200, 47813200, 47814200, 47819200, 47792200, 47793200, 47794200, 47799200 | 0, 1, 2, 3 |
Sold at: Department and appliance stores from January 2000 to December 2003 for between $1,500 and $2,000.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the microwave oven immediately. Consumers should contact GE regarding their GE/GE Profile micro-oven combo or Sears for their Kenmore unit. GE is offering a free repair or rebate on a new product, a $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE brand unit, or a $600 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE Profile brand unit. Sears is offering a free repair or $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new Kenmore brand unit. Consumers can continue using the lower thermal oven.
Consumer Contact: For additional information on GE /Profile units, contact General Electric toll-free at (888)-240-2745 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET Saturday, or visit GE’s Web site at www.geappliances.com. For additional information on Kenmore units, contact Sears toll-free at (888) 679-0282 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday, or visit Sears’ Web site at www.sears.com
Decorating for the holidays is one of the most common, most effective ways to express the festive mood of the season. Many holiday decorations pose safety threats when not used properly, however. This holiday season, take steps to ensure that your decorating traditions don't put you or your loved ones at risk. The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) offers the following holiday decorating safety tips:
Continue Reading...World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc., a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting toy safety, has issued its annual list of "10 Worst Toys." According to "WATCH," the toys are selected for their potential to cause injury to children.
Continue Reading...The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Nike have announced a voluntary recall of football helmets because of a safety hazard with the chin strap. Consumers should immediately stop using the helmets and contact Nike for a product voucher. The CPSC announcement is reproduced in its entirety below:
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 13, 2007 Release #08-081 | Firm’s Recall Hotline: (888) 583-6453 |
Name of Product: Football Helmet Chin Straps
Units: About 235,000
Manufacturer: Nike Inc., of Beaverton, Ore.
Hazard: The chin strap’s plastic cup can break as a result of contact, exposing the player to facial or head injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: Nike has received 18 reports of the chin strap breaking, including two reports of concussions, two reports of facial lacerations requiring stitches, and a report of a broken nose.
Description: The recalled football helmet chin strap consists of a plastic cup with a foam liner, straps and four metal snaps. They were sold in both youth and adult sizes and come in black/gray and white/gray color combinations. The Nike Swoosh trademark is printed on the outside of the chin cup and DRI-FIT™ is printed on the foam liner. “Made in China” and one of the following four style numbers is printed on the inside of the strap: FA0016 046, FA0016 130, FA0021 046, or FA0021 130.
Sold at: Sporting good stores nationwide and on the firm’s Web site www.Nike.com from April 2006 through October 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the chin strap immediately and contact Nike for a product voucher redeemable at www.nikestore.com
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Nike toll-free at (888) 583-6453 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.nikebiz.com
---
Send the link for this page to a friend! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
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 www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. To join a CPSC email subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced another toy recall, Curious George Plush Dolls manufactured by Marvel Toys. The surface paint of the toy's face and hat contain excessive levels of lead in violation of the federal lead paint standards. Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled products immediately.
The CPSC notice is reproduced in its entirety below:
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 8, 2007 Release #08-079 | Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 352-2064 |
Name of Product: Curious George Plush Dolls
Units: About 175,000
Manufacturer: Marvel Toys, of New York, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paint on the toy’s plastic face and construction hat contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves Curious George 12-inch plush dolls with a plastic face. The dolls are dressed to represent five various themes: birthday, fireman, sweet dreams, tool time and tool time with a soft face. The plush dolls were sold with a Curious George storybook or activity book. The following product and SKU numbers are printed on the packaging.
| Birthday | 90253/ 8-83199-90253-5 |
| Fireman | 90246/ 8-83199-90246-7 |
| Sweet Dreams | 90247/ 8-83199-90247-4 |
| Tool Time | 90251/ 8-83199-90251-1 |
| Tool Time (soft face) | 90251/ 8-83199-90251-1 |
Sold at: Toy and discount department stores nationwide from December 2005 through August 2007 for about $15.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Marvel Toys to receive a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Marvel Toys at (800) 352-2064 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.regcen.com/curiousgeorge
The U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall of Bassettbaby Cribs. The danger is that the bolts that connect the top corners of the cribs can come loose and create a dangerous gap. A serious entrapment and strangulation hazard may result. Consumers should stop using the cribs immediately and contact Bassettbaby for a free repair kit.
The complete CPSC notice appears below:
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 8, 2007 Release #08-075 | Firm’s Recall Hotline: (888) 897-4689 |
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Wendy Bellissimo Collection Convertible Cribs
Units: About 8,900
Importer: Bassettbaby, of Bassett, Va.
Manufacturer: Goodbaby Child Products Company Ltd., of China
Hazard: The bolts connecting the top corners of the crib can come loose, creating a gap and posing a serious entrapment and strangulation hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Bassettbaby has 85 reports of bolts loosening, including one report of a 13 month-old child’s hand becoming entrapped between the railings.
Description: This recall involves Wendy Bellissimo Collection convertible cribs, model numbers 5945-0521 and 5545-0521, sold in honey and cherry finishes. The full size cribs have a sleigh design and one of the following purchase order numbers at the bottom rail of the headboard: 272903, 272904, 273904, 276728, 276729, 291081, 323975, 324472, 320318, 323976, 332883 365620, 368466 in honey, and 338535, 338537 and 332884 in cherry. All other Wendy Bellissimo Collection cribs are not involved in this recall.
Sold at: Babies R Us stores nationwide from July 2005 through October 2007 for about $500.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using these cribs immediately and contact Bassettbaby for a free repair kit.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Bassettbaby at (888) 897-4689 between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET daily, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bassettbaby.com
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall of the Spin Master Aqua-Dots beads/craft kit because of a serious danger for children who may swallow the beads.
According to a report published in the Washington Post, children who swallow the beads are exposed to a dangerous chemical similar to the powerful "date rape" drug that causes possible unconsciousness, seizures, drowsiness, coma and death.
The entire CPSC bulletin follows:
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 7, 2007 Release #08-074 | Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 622-8339 |
Name of Product: Aqua Dots
Units: About 4.2 million
Distributor: Spin Master, of Toronto, Canada
Hazard: The coating on the beads that causes the beads to stick to each other when water is added contains a chemical that can turn toxic when many are ingested. Children who swallow the beads can become comatose, develop respiratory depression, or have seizures.
Incidents/Injuries: CPSC has received two reports over the past several days of children swallowing Aqua Dots. A 20-month-old child swallowed several dozen beads. He became dizzy and vomited several times before slipping into a comatose state for a period of time, was hospitalized, and has since fully recovered. A second child also vomited and slipped into a comatose state and was hospitalized for five days.
Description: The recalled toy is a craft kit which allows children to create various multi-dimensional designs using small colored beads. The beads fuse together when sprayed with water. The recall applies to all models of Aqua Dots. The product is available in various different kits with accessories such as a drying fan, applicator pen, design templates for the beads, and spray bottle. The product is labeled for ages 4+.
Sold at: Mass merchandisers nationwide from April 2007 through November 2007 for between $17 and $30.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy away from children and contact Spin Master to return for free replacement beads or a toy of equal value.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Spin Master at (800) 622-8339 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.aquadotsrecall.com
Bumbo Baby Sitter Seats have been recalled by the manufacturer and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The full text of the CPSC warning is provided below:
| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 25, 2007 Release #08-046 | Firm’s Recall Hotline: (877) 932-8626 |
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Bumbo “Baby Sitter” Seats
Units: About 1 million
Manufacturer: Bumbo International, of South Africa
Hazard: If the seat is placed on a table, countertop, chair, or other elevated surface, young children can arch their backs, flip out of the Bumbo seat, and fall onto the floor, posing a risk of serious head injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: CPSC has received 28 reports of young children falling out of the Bumbo Baby Sitter seat, including three skull fractures, which occurred when children fell out of chairs that had been placed on tables.
Description: The bottom of the children’s seat is round and flat with a diameter of about 15 inches. It is constructed of a single piece of molded foam and comes in yellow, blue, purple, pink, aqua, and lime green. The seat has leg holes and seat back that wraps completely around the child. On the front of the seat in raised lettering is the word “Bumbo” with the image of an elephant on top. The bottom of the seat has the following words: “Manufactured by Bumbo South Africa Material: Polyurethane World Patent No. PCT: ZA/1999/00030.” The back of the seat contains the following “WARNING” – “Never use on a raised surface. Never use as a car seat or bath seat. Designed for floor level use only. Never leave your baby unattended as the seat is not designed to be totally restrictive and may not prevent release of your baby in the event of vigorous movement.”
Sold by: Target, Wal-Mart, Sears, Toys R Us, Babies R Us, USA Babies and various other toy and children’s stores nationwide, and various online sellers, from August 2003 through October 2007 for about $40.
Manufactured in: South Africa
Remedy: Consumers should never use the infant seat on a table, countertop, chair, or other elevated surface. Consumers can contact Bumbo to obtain new warning label stickers and instructions, free of charge. The new warning label will state: “WARNING – Prevent Falls; Never use on any elevated surface.” Consumers should use the Bumbo seat at ground level, but should never leave a child unattended.
Consumer Contact: Contact Bumbo International at (877) 932-8626 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bumbosafety.com
Send the link for this page to a friend! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
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 www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. To join a CPSC email subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.
Payless ShoeSource is recalling 90,000 girls' Hannah Montana boots, because the guitar-shaped zipper pulls of the right and left boots can snag together while walking and cause the wearer to fall. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the boots were sold in girls' sizes 10.5 - 4.5, and were available from August 2007 through September 2007 for approximately $27.
Continue Reading...Commercially-available lead test kits used by consumers to detect unsafe levels of lead in their homes are not reliably accurate, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The agency recently issued a news bulletin regarding the kits after randomly testing several different models. False positive test results and false negative test results were both obtained, though false negatives were more common. Out of 104 tests, 56 tests provided false negative results and 2 provided false positives. According to CPSC, the results are consistent with previous determinations that home-based lead testing kits are unreliable.
Continue Reading...The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary Toshiba recall of certain AC adapters included as accessories with some Toshiba DVD players. The adapters are being recalled over concerns related to overheating and burn hazards. Consumers should stop using these adapters immediately. The following product information pertains to units affected by the recall:
Continue Reading...Bunk beds are a common feature of many children's rooms, especially in homes where floor space carries a premium. Each year, however, thousands of children sustain injuries related to bunk beds -- and not always predictable injuries.
Continue Reading...Paintball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Nowadays, with the right safety equipment, it can been relatively safe. However, in this instance, the manufacturer of the carbon dioxide cylinder used on the paintball gun knew about safety issues with the valve. According to the family's investigation, the manufacturers knew of the potential danger from the valve-and-cylinder combination since 1990.
Unfortunately for the Contois family, their wife and mother was killed when a teenager player inadvertently detached a valve, launching his gun’s carbon-dioxide-filled cylinder like a missle. The cylinder struck Ms. Contois in the head. She died on the scene.
The family recovered $8 million for their loss. But the family and their attorney did not stop there. They insisted as part of the settlement that the company promise to publicize warnings about the dangers of old valves. The family then claimed that KEE Action Sports, the successor to National Paintball Supply, inherited the obligation to continue to warn consumers about these older valves. In another complaint to filed in Contra Costa County Superior Court, the family contends KEE has not lived up to their promises. The family says Kee has failed to post warnings on its Web site and elsewhere. KEE did not comment, citing the litigation, but they do have a statement on their website stating that they have reached out to the Contois family to resolve this.
On September 21, 2007, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall of 1 million Simplicity cribs due to safety concerns. The cribs were made in China and sold in various department stores in the United States. This is not the first recall of Simplicity Cribs. The CPSC links the Simplicity Cribs to two infant deaths and another child's death is under investigation. The company and agency also report 7 cases of infants becoming trapped and 55 other cases of drop-rail complaints.
Families are asking why it took so long for Simplicity and the CPSC to act? The Chicago Tribune reported that President of Simplicity, Inc., Ken Waldman, contended that his company makes safe products and was cooperating with the CPSC. Mr. Waldman did not say why the recall did not occur earlier. "This is the thing to do and that's why we decided to do it now," he said.
Another very disturbing development is that parents report calling for the repair kits and being told that the kits are not available or kits have been received with no written instructions.
Continue Reading...Three new toy recalls by Mattel and Fisher-Price were recently announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Approximately 775,000 units were determined to have excessive lead content and subsequently were involved in the most recent recalls.
The News Releases issued by CPSC on September 4, 2007 are quoted below in their entirety.
"NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2007
Release #07-301
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 496-8330
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Mattel Recalls Various Barbie Accessory Toys Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Various Barbie Accessory Toys
Units: About 675,000
Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves various Barbie accessory toys that were manufactured between September 30, 2006 and August 20, 2007. The model names, product numbers and affected date code numbers are listed in a chart on CPSC's web site. The product and date code numbers are printed on the largest component of the toy sets.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel for instructions on how to receive a free replacement toy of equal value.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Mattel's Fisher-Price hotline at (888) 496-8330 anytime, or visit the firm's Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products and a chart of model names, product numbers and affected date code numbers, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07301.html
********************************************************
NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2007
Release #07-302
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 496-8330
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Fisher-Price Recalls Geo Trax Locomotive Toys Due To Violation of Lead Paint Standard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Geo Trax Locomotive Toys
Units: About 90,000
Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves the Geo Trax Freightway Transport and Geo Trax Special Track Pack locomotive toys. These toys are red with yellow paint on the ladder and horn details. The recalled models were manufactured between July 31, 2006 and August 20, 2007 and have a date code between 212-6CK through 325-6CK or 001-7CK through 232-7CK marked on the bottom of the product. The packaging on the Freightway Transport model is marked H5705 and the packaging on the Special Track Pack model is marked K3013.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from September 2006 through August
2007 for between $3 and $16.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price. Consumers will need to return the product in order to receive a free replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price toll-free at (888) 496-8330 anytime or visit the firm's Web site at www.service.mattel.com
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07302.html
********************************************************
NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2007
Release #07-303
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 496-8330
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Fisher-Price Recalls Bongo Band Toys Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Big Big World 6-in-1 Bongo Band toys
Units: About 8,900
Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal law prohibiting lead paint on children's toys.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled toys have two bongos, including one with a yellow and green plastic drum base with a blue drum surface. The other bongo is yellow and green plastic drum base with an orange drum surface with "It's a Big, Big World" printed on it. The toys were sold with animal shaped accessories including a monkey, bird, tambourine and drum stick. The toys have product number K9343 inside the orange drum. A date code between 139-7SH and 232-7SH is printed on the drum's orange ring surface. Bongo Band toys included in this recall must have both the product number and date code.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price for instructions on returning the product in order to receive a free replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price at
(888) 496-8330 anytime or visit the firm's Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07303.html
Graco Children's Products, Inc. and Britax Child Safety, Inc. have each recently issued safety alerts related to certain models of child safety seats for automobiles.
Affected Graco seats have misrouted lower anchor belts -- a flaw that could prevent the seat from remaining firmly restrained in the event of a collision, and potentially lead to serious injuries. On affected units, the lower anchorage belt was mistakenly routed behind the shoulder portion of the harness rather than under the buckle portion of the harness. These seats are not being recalled, but the manufacturer has issued a safety notice and instructions for re-routing the lower belt.
The Britax seats are being recalled because under certain circumstances, when the harness adjuster strap is pulled from an angle, the bezel may separate from the restraint shell, causing difficulty with the proper adjustment of the harness. This difficulty may lead to improper usage or adjustment, and a loose-fitting belt may ultimately cause injuries in the event of an accident.
Continue Reading...Toshiba America has announced an expanded voluntary recall of defective lithium-ion laptop batteries manufactured by Sony Corporation. The batteries, which pose a fire hazard due to overheating, were not included in the much wider recall of Sony laptop batteries issued in 2006, also due to fire hazards from overheating. Most of the affected batteries accompanied new Toshiba Satellite and Tecra notebook computers with any of the following model numbers:
Certain 2007 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 Trucks are being recalled by the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Toyota Motor Corporation due to a drivetrain defect. Approximately 100 trucks are currently subject to the recall, involving rear propeller shafts which were improperly cast and my fail, separating and coming into contact with the road. Under the recall, scheduled to begin on or around August 8, 2007, authorized dealers will replace the rear propeller shaft with a new one free of charge.
Truck owners with questions concerning the recall are instructed to call Toyota at 1(800) 331-4331, or by contacting NHTSA at 1(888) 327-4236, or via their recall website: http://www.safercar.gov.
Previously on the D.C. Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:
Vinyl baby bibs sold at Toys "R" Us stores may contain dangerous levels of lead, according to a recent Washington Post article. The bibs were produced in China for Louisiana-based Hamco Baby Products.
According to the Post article, the Center for Environmental Health in Oakland, California -- a nonprofit environmental advocacy group -- purchased bibs from Toys "R" Us and had their lead levels independently analyzed earlier in the year. When they failed to meet acceptable health and safety standards, the group notified the store and threatened legal action if the bibs weren't removed from shelves.
Toys "R" Us is conducting additional tests on the bibs, and has said the products will be removed if found to contain unacceptable levels of lead. According to the store, the products it sells are regularly analyzed to ensure acceptable lead levels. This additional testing is being conducted in response to the findings of the Center for Environmental Health, and in response to a decision by Wal-Mart to remove lead-tainted bibs from its shelves earlier this year. Wal-Mart removed its lead-tainted bibs after the Center for Environmental Health determined that they were unsafe and threatened legal action.
Continue Reading...More than a quarter million defective Chinese tires are being recalled by New Jersey-based Foreign Tire Sales, because they lack a gum strip -- a band of rubber designed to keep the steel belts from separating. Belt separation can cause the tires to split apart at high speeds, and the flaw has already resulted in some fatalities. The tires were sold under the brand names Westlake, Compass and YKS from 2004 to mid-2006, and were marketed for use on SUVs, trucks and vans. About 1,100 of the tires were sold in Virginia, but none are known to have been sold in Maryland or DC.
Mattel, Inc. has announced an expanded recall of 9 million toys due to health threats posed by powerful magnets and toxic lead paint. Approximately 1.5 million toys were recalled on August 1st, all of which had been manufactured in China. These latest additions were also manufactured in China. Among those magnetic toys most recently recalled are Polly Pocket toys, Barbie and Tanner sets, Doggie Daycare sets and Batman figurines. Sarge characters from the movie Cars are being recalled due to toxic surface paint.
Continue Reading...Red yeast rice and red yeast rice supplements are often marketed as cholesterol-lowering alternatives to medication. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced, however, that some red yeast rice products may lower peoples' cholesterol because manufacturers have been illegally lacing them with lovastatin -- the active ingredient in Mevacor, a prescription cholesterol drug. The FDA has issued warnings related to the following specific red yeast rice products:
Recalls by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are particularly effective at removing dangerous products from store shelves before they can injure consumers.
Recalls.gov is a web-based resource that helps remove those products from the homes of consumers in instances where they've already been sold. You can always be notified of product recalls by filling out and returning the product registration card of any appliance or product that you purchase.
Alternatively, however, you can now sign up to receive free email notifications of recalled goods from their respective regulatory agencies. The site can also be used to search a comprehensive database of recalled products, and warnings that have been issued by three other agencies, as well: the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Coast Guard. The site also enables consumers to report potentially dangerous products and serves as a repository for general safety information.
After a local incident of carbon monoxide poisoning, D.C. Fire and Rescue officials say the episode was likely related to a malfunctioning hot water heater in the basement of a house. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless and practically odorless gas, and is highly dangerous.
Continue Reading...Ford Motor Company has announced a voluntary expanded recall of 3.6 million vehicles due to fire safety concerns stemming from faulty cruise control switches. The recall now includes more than a dozen models of vehicle built between 1992 and 2007.
In January 2005, the company had recalled approximately 6 million vehicles with similar cruise control switch problems. According to Ford, newly-affected owners will begin receiving notices of the expanded recall on August 15, 2007.
Owners with immediate questions regarding the recall are instructed to call (888) 222-2751.
Ford's latest recall involves the following vehicles:
Continue Reading...