product recall archives
site sponsored by The Law Offices of William D. Bonilla, P.C.
December 2009
LaJobi Reannounce
2001 Recall of Cribs Due to Entrapment and Strangulation Hazards
Concern that Cribs Could Now Be At Second Hand or Thrift Stores
Name of Product: "Molly" and "Betsy" Cribs
Units: About 400 (This recall was first announced in December 2001
Manufacturer: LaJobi Inc., of Cranbury, N.J.
Hazard: The cribs have cut-outs in the end panels that can allow young
children
to get their heads entrapped, which can pose a strangulation hazard to
infants
and toddlers.
Nov. 2009 - 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: Maclaren Strollers
Units: About one million
Distributor: Maclaren USA, Inc., of South Norwalk, Conn.
Hazard: The stroller’s hinge mechanism poses a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening the stroller.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 15 reports of children placing their finger in the stroller’s hinge mechanism, resulting in 12 reports of fingertip amputations in the United States.
Description: This recall involves all Maclaren single and double umbrella strollers. The word “Maclaren” is printed on the stroller. The affected models included Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.
Sold at: Babies“R”Us, Target and other juvenile product and mass merchandise retailers nationwide from 1999 through November 2009 for between $100 and $360.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled strollers
Nov. 2009 - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Adventure Playsets Wooden Play Sets
Units: About 275,000 in the United States and 6,800 in Canada
Distributor: Adventure Playsets, of Amarillo, Texas
Hazard: The plastic coated lumber on the horizontal ladder (monkey bar/swing beam) can weaken over time due to rotting of the whitewood (spruce, pine and fir species), resulting in a fall hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Adventure Playsets has received more than 1,400 reports of rotting ladders involving 16 injuries that resulted in nine emergency room visits. The injuries include two arm fractures, lacerations, scrapes, and bruises to children younger than 8 years old. Most of the reported injuries occurred when the swing came out of the monkey bar/ swing beam that had rotted.
Sold at: Walmart, Toys R Us, Academy Sports, Menards, and Mill stores nationwide, and online at Walmart.com, ToyRUs.com, Willygoat.com and through the DMSI catalog from January 2004 through December 2007 for between $300 and $600.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the swing sets
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pig Ears and Beef Hooves pet treats manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.
The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.
The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected withSalmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Bugaboo Recalls Strollers Due to Risk of Brake Failure
Distributor: Bugaboo North America Inc., of
Hermosa Beach, Calif.
Manufacturer: Bugaboo Design & Sales, B.V., of the Netherlands
Hazard: One or both sides of the brakes can fail, causing a stroller to
unexpectedly roll away on an incline. This can pose a risk of injury to
the
child occupant.
Incidents/Injuries: Bugaboo has received 121 reports of the stroller's
brakes
failing.
Sold at: Juvenile product retailers nationwide
and on various Web sites from
August 2007 through April 2009 for about $530.
Bicycles Recalled by REI Due to Fork Failure
Distributor: Recreational Equipment Inc.
(REI), of Kent, Wash.
Hazard: The fork can separate from the steerer tube which can cause the
rider to
lose control, posing a fall hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received two reports of forks
separating
causing riders to fall. Injuries reported include a fractured clavicle,
broken
teeth, facial damage and head injuries.
Description: This recall involves 2005 Novara Trionfo bicycles with
Aprebic
carbon fiber forks. The bicycles are blue and white with black forks,
and have
the name "Novara" printed on the bars.
Sold at: REI retail stores nationwide from January 2005 through August
2006 for
between $720 and $1,900.
Children’s Hooded Jackets with Drawstrings Recalled by Ms. Bubbles Inc. Due to Strangulation Hazard
Jan. 6, 2009 - Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Girls Blue Denim Passport Jackets
Units: About 55,000
Manufacturer: Ms. Bubbles Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif.
Hazard: The jackets have a drawstring through the hood which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets or sweatshirts.
Description: The recalled blue denim jackets have a white terrycloth underlay lining and drawstring. The jackets were sold in children’s sizes medium (7-10), large (11-14) and x-large (15-16). Style number BF1400 KP is printed on the hang tag attached to the garment.
Sold at: T.J. Maxx, J.C. Penney, and Forman Mills stores nationwide from August 2007 through December 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard.
Hockey Helmets Recalled by Reebok-CCM Due to Head and Neck Injury Hazard
Name of Product: Hockey Helmets
Units: About 1,000
Distributor: Reebok-CCM Hockey U.S. Inc., of Montpelier, Vt.
Hazard: The helmet’s chinstrap can unexpectedly disengage while in use. If this happens, the helmet can fall off, posing a head and neck injury risk to consumers.
Description: This recall involves RBK and CCM brand hockey helmets. Helmets included in this recall have a HECC sticker with date code JUN – 2013. HECC stickers and model numbers are located on the back of the helmets.
Sold at: Sporting goods stores nationwide and Internet retailers from May 2008 through July 2008 for between $80 and $200.
Manufactured in: Canada
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using.
Stainless Steel Pots Recalled by Ocean State Jobbers Due to Burn Hazard
Nov. 26, 2008 -- Name of Product: Century Cookware Stainless Steel Stockpots
Hazard: The stainless steel pots have metal handles that can detach during use, posing a serious burn hazard to consumers.
Manufactured in: India
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the stockpots.
JCPenney Recalls Arizona® Newborn and Infant Pants Due to Choking Hazard
Importer: JCPenney Co., of Plano, Texas
Hazard: The metal snap at the waist can detach posing a choking hazard to infants.
Sold Exclusively at: JCPenney stores nationwide and at www.jcp.com from July 2008 through October 2008 for about $15.
Manufactured in: Bangladesh
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled pants
ImagiPLAY Recalls Bead Maze Toys Due to Laceration Hazard
Hazard: The trees on the toys can detach, exposing a metal screw. This poses a laceration hazard to young children.
Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children.
Candela Recalls Candles Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Hazard: The candle flames could flare up out of the tin container during the burning of the last half inch of wax, posing a fire and burn hazard.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled tin candles.
GE Recalls wall ovens due to fire and burn hazards
Nov. 18, 2008 -- Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately.
Name of Product: GE®, GE Profile™, Monogram® and Kenmore® Wall Ovens.
Description: This recall involves GE wall ovens sold under the following brand names: GE®, GE Profile™, Monogram® and Kenmore®. The wall ovens were sold in white, black, bisque and stainless steel. The following model and serial numbers can be found inside the oven on the left interior wall. For microwave combination ovens, the serial number can be found on the left interior wall of the microwave.
GE is aware of at least 28 incidents, at the time of this reporting, of property damage in which adjacent kitchen cabinets have been damaged.
Nov. 13, 2008 -- Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately.
Hazard: The rechargeable batteries in the radios can leak electrolyte, posing a chemical burn hazard to consumers.
Description: The recall involves two-way radios with the 300 mah “CEL” batteries. The walkie talkie style radios are made of pink plastic and come in purple packaging. Product number PR191-2VP is located on the front of the packaging and on the label inside the battery compartment. The batteries are standard AAA Nickle Metal Hydride battery cells with a black wrapper with the battery name 300 mah (CEL) with the date code (TF or RF) on the battery itself.
Sold by: Toys “R” Us Stores nationwide from August 2008 through September 2008 for about $30.
Manufactured in: China.
Name of Product: CORAL Swim ‘N Score Pool Stix
Manufacturer: ERO Industries (no longer in business), of Mount Prospect, Ill.
Hazard: Children can fall or land on these dive sticks in shallow water and suffer impalement injuries. Eye and other facial injuries are also possible. In April 2001, CPSC banned certain types of dive sticks.
Sold at: Modell’s Sporting Goods stores nationwide from August 1999 to October 2008 for about $3.
Manufactured in: Taiwan
Hooded Sweaters Recalled by Empress Arts; Children Can Strangle on Drawstrings
Sept. 2008 -- Hazard: The sweaters have drawstrings through the hood. Children can get entangled in the drawstrings that can catch on playground equipment, fences or tree branches. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist drawstring in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts. From 1985 through 2007, CPSC received reports of 27 deaths and 70 non-fatal incidents involving the entanglement of children's clothing drawstrings.
Rapid Reel(r) Recalls Portable Garden Hose Carts; Tires Can Explode Posing an Injury Hazard
Sept. 2008 -- Hazard: The tires on the
portable garden hose reel can explode while being inflated, posing an
injury hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Rapid Reel(r) has received five reports of tires
exploding while being inflated, resulting in lacerations to fingers,
arms, and legs from flying pieces of plastic.
Description: This recall involves the Rapid Reel(r) portable garden hose
reel carts and wagons. The cart has two tires and the wagon has four.
The tires have a white plastic rim and a steel ball bearing hub or a
black plastic bearing hub.
Sold by: Home repair retailers and distributors such as Ace Hardware,
Amazon.com, and True Value Hardware nationwide from April 2005 through
March 2006 for between $190 and $250.
Manufactured in: China
Bonne Bell Recalls Children's Cosmetics Accessory Bags Due to Risk of Lead Exposure
Aug. 29, 2008 -- Hazard: The metal clasps on the handle of the accessory bags contain excessive levels of lead, which is toxic if ingested and can cause adverse health effects.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide and Bonne Bell’s Web site from
September 2007 through August 2008 for about $9.
Manufactured in: China
Infants Strangled to Death in Simplicity Bassinets: CPSC Urges Consumers To Stop Using Simplicity 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 Convertible “Close-Sleeper” Models
Aug. 27, 2008 -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging parents and caregivers to stop using convertible “close-sleeper/bedside sleeper” bassinets manufactured by Simplicity Inc., of Reading, Pa. CPSC has learned that on August 21, 2008, a 5-month-old girl from Shawnee, Kan. was strangled to death when she became entrapped between the bassinet’s metal bars. This is the second strangulation death CPSC has learned of in the co-sleeper bassinets. On September 29, 2007, a 4-month-old girl from Noel, Mo. became entrapped in the metal bars of the bassinet and died.
CPSC is issuing this safety alert because SFCA Inc., the company which purchased all of Simplicity Inc.’s assets at public auction in April 2008, has refused to cooperate with the government and recall the products. SFCA maintains that it is not responsible for products manufactured by Simplicity Inc.
The Simplicity 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 convertible bassinets contain metal
bars spaced farther apart than 2 3/8 inches, which is the maximum
distance allowed under the federal crib safety standard. The metal bars
are covered by an adjustable fabric flap which is attached by velcro.
The fabric is folded down when the bassinet is converted into a bed-side
co-sleeping position. If the velcro is not properly re-secured when the
flap is adjusted, an infant can slip through the opening and become
entrapped in the metal bars and suffocate.
Due to the serious hazard these bassinets pose to babies, CPSC urges all consumers to share this safety warning with day care centers, consignment stores, family and friends to ensure that no child is placed to sleep in a Simplicity convertible bassinet covered by this warning.
Hydrox Labs Issued a Recall of Alcohol-Free Mouthwash Nationwide Distributed by Cardinal Health
May 2, 2008 Hydrox Labs, Elgin, IL has issued a voluntary recall of Cardinal Health labeled alcohol-free mouthwash. As a result of this recall, Cardinal Health is initiating a voluntary recall of the same alcohol-free mouthwash. The FDA has been apprised of the action. The mouthwash has been tested and been found positive for Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia). The CDC has confirmed hospital illnesses in one state associated with the use of the affected mouthwash.
Product was distributed to hospitals, medical centers, and long term care facilities nationwide.
B. cepacia poses little medical risk to healthy people. However, people who have certain health problems such as weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis (CF), may be more susceptible to infections with B. cepacia. B. cepacia is a known cause of infections in hospitalized patients. B. cepacia bacteria are often resistant to common antibiotics. The effects of B. cepacia on people vary widely, ranging from no symptoms at all, to serious respiratory infections, especially in patients with CF.
Gecko Alliance Recalls Electronic Spa Controls Used on Serenity Spas Due to Fire Hazard
April 1, 2008 Serenity Spa Hot Tubs
Manufacturer: Gecko Alliance of Quebec, Canada
Hazard: The hot tub's spa control can overheat, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Gecko Alliance has received 28 reports of the spa
control overheating, including one incident of damage to spa equipment.
Master Lock Recalls Lock and Leash(tm) Locks Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
April 1, 2008
Manufacturer: Fullyear-Brother Enterprise Co. Ltd, of Taiwan
Hazard: Red surface paint on the locks contains excessive levels of
lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
March 19, 2008
Salton Inc. Recalls Electric Toasters Due to Fire Hazard
Hazard: The toaster can turn on without bread in the slots and ignite
items placed on top of it, posing a fire hazard.
Description: This recall involves the chrome two-slice electric toasters
sold under the following brands: Farberware (model # FCT200 or FCT100),
Hoffritz (model # HZT2 and HZT2M), and Russell Hobbs (model #RH2MT). The
brand name and model number are printed on a plate located on the
underside of the toaster.
Sold by: Online and retail liquidators nationwide from January 2000
through December 2007 for between $40 and $50.
Progress Lighting Recalls Ceiling-Mounted Outdoor Light Fixtures;
Lights
Can Fall Off Mounting and Injure Consumers
Hazard: A weld that affixes a mounting bracket to the ceiling pan can
fail, which can cause the fixture to fall and injure nearby persons.
Incidents/Injuries: Progress Lighting has received six reports of
fixtures falling.
March 6, 2008
Pier 1 Imports Recalls Tealight Candle Holders Due to Fire Hazard
Hazard: The spacing of the holes in a concentrated pattern allows the
holder to heat-up. This can cause the tealights to burn unexpectedly
fast and with a higher flame height than normal, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Pier 1 Imports has received seven reports of high
flames.
Sold by: Pier 1 Imports stores nationwide from June 2007 through
December 2007 for between $6 and $25.
Portable Air Compressors Sold Exclusively at Advance Auto Parts
Stores Recalled Due to Fire and Electrical Hazards
Name of Product: Strike Force(tm) Portable Air Compressors.
Hazard: The compressor's motor can overheat and ignite the protective
cover, posing a fire hazard to consumers. Also, the cover might not
prevent internal components from being touched, which poses an
electrical shock hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received four reports of fires.
Hamilton Beach Recalls Toasters Due to Fire Hazard
Hazard: The toasters can remain "on" (energized) after popping up, and
can ignite flammable items covering or in contact with the toaster,
posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Hamilton Beach has received at least 63 reports of
toasters that remained "on" despite being in the "up" position.
Cinderella Battery-Powered Toy Cars Recalled by Dumar International USA Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
February 19, 2008
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with the firm named above, today announced a voluntary
recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should
stop using
recalled products
immediately
unless otherwise instructed.
Hazard: The wires under the hood of the car and/or in the battery
compartment under the seat can short circuit, posing a fire and burn
hazard to children riding in the car.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm and CPSC are aware of 40 incidents of the
toy car's wires overheating. In several incidents, smoke was seen coming
out from underneath the seat area where the battery is located. In one
incident, flames shot from under the hood while a 4-year-old girl was
riding the vehicle.
Spiderman Water Bottles Sold Exclusively at Sears Recalled by Fast
Forward Due to Choking Hazard
February 19, 2008
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with the firm named above, today announced a voluntary
recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should
stop using
recalled products
immediately
unless otherwise instructed.
Hazard: Screws under the bottle's lid can come loose and fall into the
cup, posing a choking hazard to children.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of screws coming
loose under the water bottle's lid.
Description: The recalled plastic water bottles have a Spiderman picture
on the cup and a Spiderman figure on the screw-on lid. The water bottle
is red, white, blue, and black and measures nine inches high.
Sold exclusively at: Sears stores nationwide from July 2007 through
August 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China
Chattem Issues URGENT Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Icy Hot® Heat Therapy™ Products
February 8, 2008 -- Chattem, Inc. announced today that it is initiating a voluntary Nationwide recall of its Icy Hot Heat Therapy products, including consumer "samples" that were included on a limited promotional basis in cartons of its 3 oz. Aspercreme® product. This recall is being conducted to the consumer level.
Chattem is recalling these products because it has received some consumer reports of first, second and third degree burns as well as skin irritation resulting from consumer use or possible misuse of these products.
NOTE: if products have been removed from their holding cartons the recalled products are packaged in a red colored plastic pouch which states Icy Hot Heat Therapy and either Back or Arm/Neck and Leg.
Single consumer use "samples" of Icy Hot Heat Therapy- Arm, Neck and Leg were included on a limited promotional basis in yellow and red cartons of 3 oz. Aspercreme Pain Relieving Crème. The samples were distinct and stand-alone products, clearly labeled as "Icy Hot Heat Therapy Air Activated Heat," with their own internal labeling.
Consumers who have the Icy Hot Heat Therapy products under recall should immediately stop using the products, discard them, and/or return them to Chattem, Inc.
B. Braun's Supplier Prompts Voluntary Recall of All Lots and All Sizes of Pre-Filled Heparin and Normal Saline Flush Syringes
January 18, 2008 -- B. Braun Medical Inc. was recently notified by its contract manufacturer, AM2PAT Inc., of a nationwide recall of all lots and sizes of Pre-filled Heparin and Saline Flush Syringes.
Customers that have the recalled product in their possession should discontinue use immediately. If patients report any problems that may be related to usage of this product a physician should be contacted.
CDC has confirmed growth of Serratia marcescens from several unopened syringes of this product in this specific AM2PAT lot. This type of bacterial infection could present a serious adverse health consequence that could lead to life-threatening injuries and/or death.
L’Oréal Initiates Nationwide Recall of L’Oréal Paris Dream Blonde Bleach and Lightening Care Kit Due to Misprinted Directions
January 18, 2008 -- L'Oréal Paris, a division of L'Oréal USA, has initiated a voluntary recall from retail stores in the United States for the L'Oréal Paris Dream Blonde (Baby's Breath Blonde #100 Ultra Lightening) Bleach and Lightening care kit. The product was sold in retail outlets in the US from January 1 through January 18, 2008. L'Oréal is voluntarily taking this action due to an error in the printing of the directions for the use of the Dream Blonde Bleach and Lightening care kit. All retailers have been notified and have removed the product from their shelves. Affected consumers, estimated at a few hundred, will receive a full refund for returned product.
L'Oréal took immediate action following one customer complaint of the product causing irritation. The Dream Blonde Bleach and Lightening Care formula itself is safe. However, if used according to the current misprinted directions, complications such as irritation or sensitivity could result, so consumers should not use the product and should instead return it to their retailer for a refund. As with any product, if a consumer feels they are having any type of reaction or irritation, they should consultant their physician. This recall affects only the Dream Blonde Bleach and Lightening care kit in the Dream Blonde range of products.
B. Braun Medical Inc. Issues Nationwide Recall of Normal Saline Flush Syringes
September 14, 2007 – B. Braun Medical Inc., Bethlehem, PA, announced on July 30, 2007 a voluntary nationwide recall of Normal Saline Flush syringes with lot numbers ending in "SFR" due to an increase in customer complaints for particulate matter in the saline. The FDA has been apprised of this action.
The introduction of particulate matter into the blood stream may result in phlebitis and / or damage to vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, heart and lungs. To a less likely extent, there is a potential for the development of pulmonary embolism or silicone embolism syndrome, which could cause severe injury and / or death. Symptoms would generally be expected to develop quickly and are unlikely to develop more than 24 - 48 hours after the administration of the product. However, the risk associated with use of this product is cumulative and increases with each additional exposure. A patient may not develop any symptoms until they have received multiple doses of the product. To date, B. Braun has received no reports of any patient injury associated with this issue.
Customers that have the recalled product in their possession should discontinue use immediately and contact their physician if they have experienced any problems that may be related to usage of this product.
Outdoor Lounge Chairs Sold at Lowe's Stores Recalled Due to Fall Hazard
Name of Product: Garden Treasures Cloud 9 Beyond Chairs.
Manufacturer: Taizhou Yongjiang Arts and Crafts
Collective Ltd., of
China
Hazard: The chair can break when in the reclined position, posing a fall
hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: L G Sourcing, Inc. has received seven reports of the
chairs breaking when in the reclined position, resulting in minor
injuries such as bruising to the back, hips, shoulders, arms and a torn
ligament.
Sold at: Lowe's retail outlet stores nationwide from December 2006
through April 2007 for about $60.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the chairs immediately.
Toshiba Recalls Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard
Name of Product: Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
containing Sony
cells used in Toshiba notebook computers.
Computer Importer: Toshiba America Information Systems Inc., of Irvine,
Calif.
Battery Cell Manufacturer: Sony Energy Devices Corp., of Japan
Hazard: The lithium-ion batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard to
consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Toshiba has received three reports outside of the
United States of notebook batteries overheating.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries.
Rehvac Manufacturing Recalls Safety Relief Plugs Due to Injury Hazard; Plugs Used on Nitrous Oxide Systems and Heating and Air Conditioning Service Tools
Name of Product: Relief Plugs Used on Nitrous Oxide Systems and HVAC Service Tools
Hazard: The safety relief plug can allow pressure to
build in the cylinder of an HVAC pressure testing tool or Nitrous Oxide
system. If the cylinder is overfilled and overheated it can burst,
posing an injury hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of a cylinder that
was overheated and overfilled and burst.
Sold at: HVAC and Nitrous Oxide systems suppliers and retailers nationwide. The safety plugs for the HVAC pressure testing tools were sold from January 2007 through June 2007 and the safety plugs for the Nitrous Oxide cylinders were sold from August 2006 through June 2007. Each was sold for about $5.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the cylinders that
contain the recalled plugs and place them in a cool location.
Window Blinds Sold Exclusively at Lowe's Stores Recalled for Repair by Springs Window Fashions Due to Strangulation Hazard
Name of Product: Basic Blindz® Window Blinds
Hazard: The window blinds have a pull cord that is looped, posing a
strangulation hazard to young children.
Sold at: Lowe's stores from March 2007 through July
2007 for between $24 and $40.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled window blinds.
The Orvis Company Recalls Children's Toys Sold with Sleeping Bags Due
to Choking Hazard
Name of Product: Stuffed Plush Horse/Pillows and Fairy Dolls.
Hazard: The plastic button eyes on the stuffed horse and the pompom nose on the fairy doll toy can easily detach, posing a small parts choking hazard to young children.
Sold through: The Orvis Company mail-order catalogue
and the firm's Web site from September 2006 through December 2006 for
about $70.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should take these toys away from young children immediately.
Raleigh America Recalls Bicycles; Forks Can Break Causing Loss of Control
Name of Products: 2007 Raleigh Cadent Bicycles with Carbonage Carbon Forks
Importer: Raleigh America Inc., of Kent, Wash.
Manufacturer: Carbonage Technology, of Baoan, China
Hazard: The forks can break during normal use, causing the rider to lose
control, fall and suffer serious injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: Raleigh America has received three reports of forks
breaking resulting in injuries including a dislocated shoulder, a
concussion and a broken jaw.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled bicycles immediately.
Serious Facial Injury from Explosion of Aerosol Can Prompts Sherwin-Williams Recall; Firm Warns Consumers Not to Handle Hi-Heat(tm) Coating Cans
Name of Product: Hi-Heat Aerosol Coating Cans
Units: About 3,000
Manufacturer: The Sherwin-Williams Co., of Cleveland, Ohio
Hazard: The aerosol cans can over-pressurize and explode, posing a risk
of injury to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Sherwin-Williams has received one report of a
consumer who suffered serious facial injuries including a broken jaw,
broken teeth and nose, split lip, and a shattered eye socket when a can
exploded.
Sold at: Automotive supply stores, repair shops, and parts suppliers
nationwide from August 2005 through June 2007 for about $20.
Remedy: Consumers should not handle the cans.
Pottery Barn Kids Recalls Crib Bumpers Due to Entanglement Hazard
Name of Product: Matelassé Crib Bumpers.
Manufacturer: Pottery Barn Kids
Hazard: The decorative stitching on the bumper's edge can come loose,
posing an entanglement hazard to young children.
Incidents/Injuries: Pottery Barn Kids has received two reports of
incidents involving the decorative stitching coming loose.
Sold at: Pottery Barn Kids stores nationwide, its catalog, and online stores from February 2003 through June 2007 for about $90.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the bumpers immediately and remove any exposed stitching.
Risk of Explosion and Hearing Damage Prompts Recall of Remote Control Airplanes
Name of Product: Sky Rangers Park Flyer Radio Control
Airplanes
Distributor: Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.
Hazard: The airplanes are launched by hand and can explode near the
consumer's head, posing a risk of temporary hearing loss and injuries to
eyes, face and hands.
Incidents/Injuries: Estes-Cox has received 45 reports of airplanes
exploding, including 22 reports of consumers experiencing temporary ear
pain or hearing being affected; five reports of minor burns to hands,
faces or eyes; two reports of chest impact from debris; two reports of
eye injuries; and one report of a cut hand. One consumer sought medical
attention for burning eyes.
Sold at: Hobby stores and other retailers nationwide.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled airplanes immediately.
Additional Incidents Prompt Log Splitter Recall Expansion by Brave Products; Could Pose Serious Injury Risk
Name of Product: Log Splitters
Manufacturer: Brave Products Inc., of Streator, Ill.
Hazard: The log splitter's hydraulic cylinders can have defective rod
retention, causing the seals to leak and the rods to detach. This can
result in serious injury to the operator, as the rod can rapidly and
unexpectedly extend the splitting wedge.
Incidents/Injuries: Brave Products has received 59 additional reports of
leaking cylinders and/or rod retention failure. One consumer reported a
hand amputation that could have been caused by this cylinder defect.
Sold at: Ace, True Value, and Do It Best Hardware
stores and independent power equipment dealers nationwide from January
2002 through October 2004, and from May 2006 through April 2007, for
between $900 and $2,000.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled log
splitters
Pacifiers Decorated with Crystals Recalled Due to
Aspiration and
Ingestion Hazards
Retailers: Dara Linda's Baby Bling and Jewelry Design,
of Davie, Fla.;
Bling Toes, of Cherry Valley, Ill.; Baby Bling Things, of Appleton,
Wis.; PeaNaPod Bling and Accessories, of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and MJM
Crystal Designs, of Boca Raton, Fla.
Description: The recall involves pacifiers that were
purchased from
stores, decorated with Swarovski crystals, then resold to consumers. The
crystals were glued on the pacifier's handle and guard. They come in
different colors and designs.
Hazard: These pacifiers fail to meet federal safety standards for
pacifiers. The pacifiers' crystals can separate easily, posing an
aspiration and ingestion hazard to young children.
Remedy: Consumers should
take these pacifiers
away from young children
immediately
The Toro Company Recalls Electric Blowers Due to Projectile Hazards
Name of Product: Toro Power Sweep Electric Blowers
Hazard: The blower's impeller, which is a rotating
component on the
blower, can break, resulting in pieces of plastic flying out of the
blower. This poses a risk of serious injury to the user or a bystander.
Incidents/Injuries: Toro has received 154 reports of broken impellers,
including 21 reports of minor cuts and bruises resulting from projected
impeller pieces.
Description: The recall involves Toro Power Sweep electric blower model
51586 that was manufactured between 2000 and 2002. The electric blowers
have serial numbers that range between 000055100 and 220255609. There
are two decals on the main housing of the blower. One decal reads, "TORO
Power Sweep" and the decal on the opposite side of the blower contains
the model number and serial number. The recalled units can be identified
by a black impeller fan, which can be seen through the air inlet screen
on the bottom of the unit.
Sold through: Toro dealers and various mass retailers nationwide
including The Home Depot, Lowes, Target and K-Mart stores from January
2000 through late December 2002 for about $32.
Remedy: Consumers should stop
using the recalled blowers
immediately.
Sauder Woodworking Recalls TV Stands Due to Collapse Hazard
Manufacturer: Sauder Woodworking Co., of Archbold,
Ohio
Hazard: The TV stand can collapse if the fasteners used to connect the
metal legs to the lower shelf are not completely tightened during
assembly, posing a risk that the TV set can fall onto children or
adults.
Incidents/Injuries: Sauder has received 43 reports of TV stands
collapsing. Most of the reported incidents involved stands that had
recently been assembled. Three injuries required medical treatment
including a broken arm, a torn rotator cuff with a concussion, and an
injured finger. These injuries occurred when consumers attempted to
prevent a TV from falling off the stand. In addition, a 6-year-old child
received a bruised shoulder when the stand collapsed and a TV fell on
her.
Description: The recalled TV Stand measures 23 ¾ inches (h) x 38 ½
inches (w) x 19 ½ inches (d) with a brushed maple finish. The stand has
criss-cross, black, wrought-iron legs, a pull-out drawer, and a lower
shelf. Model number 400205 and UPC number 42666 01958 are located on the
product's carton and instructions.
Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide and online at Wal-Mart.com from
January 2005 through May 2007 for about $90.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the TV stand immediately if it moves
from side-to-side.
CVS/pharmacy Announces Recall of Playskool Sippy
Cups; Poses Choking
Hazard To Young Children
Name of Product: Playskool Toddler "NoSpill" Sippy Cups
Hazard: Young children can chew through the plastic spout of the sippy
cup, which can pose a choking hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 36 reports of toddlers chewing
through the plastic spout of the sippy cup, resulting in one choking
incident and three near-choking incidents. No injuries have been
reported.
Description: This recall involves the Playskool Toddler "NoSpill" Sippy
Cup. The 8-ounce cup is clear plastic with red trim, red and yellow
handles, and a yellow tip; blue trim, blue and green handles and a green
tip; or purple trim, purple and aqua handles, and an aqua tip. The
serial number of the recalled cups is 382814, which appears on the back
of the packaging.
Sold by: CVS stores nationwide from September 2006 through April 2007
for about $5.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop
their children from using the cup
immediately
New Easy-Bake Oven Recall Following Partial Finger Amputation
Hazard: Young children can insert their hands into the
oven's front
opening, and get their hands or fingers caught, posing entrapment and
burn hazards.
Incidents/Injuries: Since the repair program announced in February,
Easy-Bake has received 249 reports of children getting their hands or
fingers caught in the oven's opening, including 77 reports of burns, 16
of which were reported as second and third-degree burns. Easy-Bake also
received one report of a serious burn that required a partial finger
amputation to a 5-year-old girl.
Sold at: Toys "R" Us, Wal-Mart, Target, KB Toys and other retailers
nationwide from May 2006 through July 2007 for about $25.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Caregivers should immediately take the recalled Easy-Bake Oven
away from children
Batteries Used with Power Tools Recalled by Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. Due To Laceration Hazard
Name of Product: Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, and Extractor 14.4 and 18 volt 2.4 Ah NiCd battery packs
Units: About 1 million
Manufacturer/Importer: Milwaukee Electric Tool Co., of Brookfield, Wis.
Hazard: If a vent on the battery cell is damaged or compromised during use, the battery can explode and pose a laceration hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. has received 35 reports of incidents, including 11 injuries from battery packs exploding while in use. Injuries include minor cuts, bruises and some hearing loss.
Description: The recalled batteries are used to power drills, saws, radios, flashlights, wrenches and Extractor windshield glass removers. The recall includes 14.4 and 18 volt 2.4 Ah NiCd Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, and Extractor battery packs manufactured between July 1999 and February 2004. The brand name can be found on a label on most battery packs. However, some 14.4 Volt 2.4Ah packs did not have “Power Plus” on the label. The battery packs were sold both with tool kits and as individual battery packs. Battery packs manufactured after February 2004 are not included in this recall.
Sold by: Home centers, hardware stores, industrial distributors and vehicle service distributors nationwide from July 1999 through 2005.
Manufactured in: Mexico
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled battery packs
Meyer Recalls Cooking Torches Due to Fire Hazard
Name of Product: BonJour® Professional Culinary Torches
Hazard: Butane fuel can leak from the torch assembly near the nozzle, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Meyer has received four reports of fuel leakage.
Description: This recall involves the BonJour® Professional Culinary Torch sold alone and as part of the BonJour® Bain Marie Set. The torch is 7.5 inches high and has a visible fuel gauge. The base is black, and the handle is either black or brown. The torch assembly is silver-colored with the word “BonJour” printed on the side.
Sold at: Various retailers nationwide from October 2006 through May 2007 for about $40 (when sold alone) or about $70 (when included as part of the Bain Marie Set).
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: should immediately stop using the torches
Gilchrist & Soames Initiates Urgent Worldwide Toothpaste Recall
August 13, 2007 -- Gilchrist & Soames, an Indianapolis-based provider of toiletry products for the hotel industry, has initiated a worldwide voluntary recall of its Gilchrist & Soames 0.65oz/18ml toothpaste manufactured in China for the company by Ming Fai Enterprises International Co., LTD, after independent tests showed some samples of the toothpaste contained diethylene glycol, or DEG.
The United States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") is not aware of any U.S. reports of poisonings from toothpaste containing DEG. However, the agency is concerned about potential risks from chronic exposure to DEG and exposure to DEG in certain populations, such as children and individuals with kidney or liver disease. DEG in toothpaste has a low but meaningful risk of toxicity and injury to these populations. Toothpaste is not intended to be swallowed, but FDA is concerned about unintentional swallowing or ingestion of toothpaste containing DEG. This voluntary recall is being conducted in cooperation with the FDA. The Company also has notified the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform in the UK to enable it to notify the European Commission to launch a RAPEX notification in the European Union.
Hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Barbados, Dominican Republic or Turks & Caicos that received the recalled toothpaste from the company’s United States distribution center, and those located in the U.K., Ireland, Spain, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and the UAE serviced by the company’s U.K. distribution center, are being asked to destroy any remaining inventory.
Hotel guests, who may have received the recalled toothpaste from hotels in any of these countries, should safely dispose of it.
Metal Folding Chairs Sold at Cost Plus World Market Stores Recalled Due to Collapse and Fall Hazards
Name of Product: Bistro Chairs. Sold at: Cost Plus World Market stores nationwide from January 2007 through June 2007 for about $50.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled chairs immediately
LED Lights Recalled by Plan 9 Due to Fire Hazard
Serious Facial Injury from Explosion of Aerosol Can Prompts
Sherwin-Williams Recall; Firm Warns Consumers Not to Handle Hi-Heat(tm)
Coating Cans
Raleigh America Recalls Bicycles; Forks Can Break Causing Loss of
Control
The Orvis Company Recalls Children's Toys Sold with Sleeping Bags Due
to Choking Hazard
Window Blinds Sold Exclusively at Lowe's Stores Recalled for Repair by Springs Window Fashions Due to Strangulation Hazard
Rehvac Manufacturing Recalls Safety Relief Plugs Due to Injury
Hazard; Plugs Used on Nitrous Oxide Systems and Heating and Air
Conditioning Service Tools
Fisher Price recall
Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer, and other children's toys
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys could contain
excessive levels of
lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse
health effects.
Description: The recalled involves various figures and toys that were
manufactured between April 19, 2007 and July 6, 2007 and were sold alone
or as part of sets. The model names and product numbers for the recalled
toys, which are all marked with "Fisher-Price," are listed below. The
toys may have a date code between 109-7LF and 187-7LF marked on the
product or packaging.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from May 2007 through August 2007 for
between $5 and $40. Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from
children
update on tire recall
NEWARK, N.J. (Aug. 9) - A tire importer said Thursday it would recall 255,000 Chinese-made tires it claims were defective because they lack a safety feature that prevents tread separation. The recall involves half the number of tires that the importer, Foreign Tire Sales Inc., had identified in June as possibly posing a risk. The models involved are steel-belted radial replacement tires for pickups, vans and sport utility vehicles that consumers bought from early 2004 through mid-2006, Foreign Tire Sales said. The small company, based in Union, was ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in June to recall as many as 450,000 tires that it bought from Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co. since 2002.
July Warnings
Reclining Lounge Chairs Sold at Menards Stores Recalled for
Collapsing Hazard
Black & Decker Recalls Trimmers/Edgers Due to
Laceration Hazard from
Projectiles
New Mexico Company Fined, Ordered To Stop Selling Illegal Fireworks
Components
AAFES
Expands Recall of "Soldier Bear" Toy Sets Due to Lead Poisoning
Hazard
Manufacturer: Toy Century Industrial Ltd., of Hong Kong
Hazard: Surface paints on the toy action figures, dinosaurs and animals
contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children
and can cause adverse health effects.
Description: This recall involves toy sets with various action figures,
dinosaurs, animals and vehicles. The style number, Universal Product
Code and Soldier Bear logo are printed on the product's packaging.
Sold at: AAFES stores worldwide from August 2005 through April 2007 for
between $5 and $15.
Manufactured in: Hong Kong
Remedy: Consumers should
immediately take the toys away from children
Vance Kitira Recalls Cinnamon Spice Candles Due to Fire Hazard
Hazard: There are no instructions on the candle warning consumers to
remove the cinnamon sticks and trim the wick before lighting the candle.
The cinnamon sticks can ignite, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of a cinnamon stick
igniting and causing a small fire.
Description: The recalled candle is 4-inches in diameter and 6-inches
tall with a long wick that ties two cinnamon sticks to the top of the
candle. The candle is brown and cream in color. The item number
(CS406BR) and "CinnSpc Cndl 4x6 Brown $19.99," and "Made in Thailand"
are printed on the label on the bottom of the candle.
Sold at: Department stores and candle retailers nationwide from May 2006
through June 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: Thailand
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the candles
Brake Cylinder Recalled By Magura USA for Brake Failure Hazard on
Off-Road Motorcycles
Hazard: The brake cylinder on
the off-road motorcycle can crack and
result in brake failure. This poses a risk of severe injury or death to
the driver.
Sold by: Motorcycle dealers nationwide, mail-order catalogues and Web
retailers from August 2005 through May 2007 for about $420.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the off-road motorcycles
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