RoomSaring And BedSharing With Your Baby : Bedsharing and bassinets Risks!

Bedsharing and bassinets: 2 new studies assess the risks

Cincinnati, OH, June 25, 2008--Bassinet use in 2006 was nearly double what it was in 1992, and even though more than 45% of infants between the ages of 0-2 months use them, little is known about bassinet safety. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has guidelines regarding bassinet construction, but there are no government safety standards for bassinets. In 2005, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) revised its recommendations for a safe infant sleep environment, suggesting a separate but nearby sleeping arrangement (i.e. roomsharing without bedsharing). Two studies soon to be published in The Journal of Pediatrics evaluate the frequency of bedsharing and the potential risk factors of bassinet use.

Drs. Jodi Pike and Rachel Moon of Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., used CPSC records from 1990 to 2004 to review the death reports of 53 infants who died suddenly and unexpectedly in bassinets. In 85% of the cases, the researchers found that lack of oxygen was the cause of death. More than half of the infants were found on their stomachs, and other items such as blankets, pillows, and plastic bags were found in 74% of the bassinets. Nine infants died in bassinets that were not functioning correctly, either from misuse or mechanical problems.

In a related study, Dr. Moon and colleagues from Children's National Medical Center, George Washington University, Yale University, and Boston University, reviewed the sleep locations of 708 mothers and their infants. Using the data collected from several Women, Infant, and Children centers (WIC) in 2005, the researchers found that roughly 33% of the mothers and infants were sharing a sleep space. According to the authors, "Approximately half of all sudden and unexpected infant deaths in the United States occur when an infant is sharing a sleep surface with someone else; the factors associated with bedsharing are also associated with SIDS."

Bassinets allow for roomsharing without bedsharing. According to Drs. Pike and Moon, "If parents plan to use a bassinet, they should make sure that it is in good repair and conforms to CPSC guidelines." The CPSC calls for bassinets to have a sturdy bottom with a wide base, smooth surfaces without protruding hardware, legs with locks, and a firm, snuggly fitting mattress. Because 6 of the 53 infants were found with their faces wedged against the side of the bassinet, the authors suggest that a bassinet with sides made of an air permeable material, such as mesh, may be safer. They also emphasize that parents should always lay infants on their backs and never put loose items like blankets or pillows in the bassinet with the baby.

Contact: Brigid Huey
journal.pediatrics@cchmc.org
513-636-7140
Elsevier Health Sciences

Tags: Bedsharing, bassinets, American Academy of Pediatrics, SIDS, roomsharing

Community Outreach and Education By CPSC, The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

The New York Public Library to Provide Parents and Caregivers Lifesaving Information

NEW YORK CITY - Consumers are bombarded with news and information every day. Important safety information may be missed by parents due to the hectic pace of the day. Now, caregivers and consumers in New York City and across the country have an easy way to keep their families safe in their homes.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers free safety information to the public through its Neighborhood Safety Network (NSN), an initiative designed to assist local organizations in providing lifesaving information to underserved members of their community. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a major health insurance company, fire departments, health clinics and numerous other organizations receive critical safety information from CPSC on poison prevention, carbon monoxide safety, bicycle safety and many other topics, which they provide to tens of thousands of parents and consumers across the country.

Today, The New York Public Library (NYPL) system announced that they have signed up to become a member of the NSN, joining a network of 5,200 grassroots organizations. In addition, CPSC encourages residents of New York City to join our “Drive To One Million” campaign – an initiative aimed at signing up one million consumers to receive free e-mail alerts on topics ranging from lead in toys to fire hazards with appliances to keeping babies and children safe at home.

At a press conference today at The New York Public Library’s Bronx Library Center, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Acting Chairman Nancy Nord, U.S. Congressman José Serrano, and the Bronx Library Center Chief Librarian Michael Alvarez urged parents, caregivers, and community leaders to sign up for the NSN and for CPSC’s free e-mail alerts. Both of these services can be accessed from www.cpsc.gov

“If you have a toy, a mattress, a toaster, or a crib, we have vital information for you. We want our safety messages to reach all consumers and we need your help,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Nord.

“I urge people to sign up to get alerts about product safety issues because it can help prevent accidents that could endanger children and adults,” said Congressman Serrano, whose Subcommittee oversees the budget of the CPSC. “I applaud the CPSC for trying to get the word out – both in English and Spanish – via traditional methods and new technologies. We all agree that we must step up efforts to protect consumers, and this is a vital program toward that end.”

“For the NYPL, joining CPSC in sharing safety information is a natural relationship. Libraries are information gateways for our communities,” said Michael Alvarez, Chief Librarian, Bronx Library Center. “We encourage users of the Bronx Library Center and other libraries to use our computer terminals to access this lifesaving information.”

The Library serves some 16 million patrons who come through its doors annually and another 25 million users internationally, who access collections and services through the NYPL website, www.nypl.org

To make product safety information available to an increasingly diverse community, CPSC is offering much of its safety information in Spanish. Consumers can receive instantaneous notice of product recalls by signing up at www.cpsc.gov

tag: NSN, CPSC, New York Public Library, Neighborhood Safety Network, poison prevention, carbon monoxide safety, bicycle safety,

New General Counsel For CPSC, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Acting Chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced the hiring of Cheryl Falvey as the agency’s new career General Counsel effective March 3, 2008.

"Ms. Falvey is highly experienced in product safety issues," said Nord. “Her expertise will greatly benefit CPSC as it continues its work to reduce deaths and injuries associated with consumer products."

Falvey will assume her new position as a career member of the Federal Senior Executive Service (SES). The position of CPSC General Counsel had previously been a “political” (Schedule C) position, but was upgraded and changed at the initiative of the Commission.

“Making the General Counsel a career SES position will enhance the credibility and long term stability and professionalism of this very important position at the CPSC,” said Nord.

Prior to her appointment as CPSC’s new General Counsel, Falvey was a partner at the law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, in the Washington, DC office. She headed the firm’s litigation practice group in Washington, and advised clients on consumer product safety issues and product recalls, with a special focus on toys, children’s products, and household electronics and appliances. Falvey joined Akin Gump in 1990 after several years of practice with a New York law firm.

“I am extremely pleased to join the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,” said Falvey. “I look forward to working with the CPSC’s talented staff to assist them with their mission to protect children and families against consumer product hazards.”

Falvey received her B.A. from Wellesley College in 1984. She received her J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center in 1987 and served as editor of the American Criminal Law Review while at Georgetown. She is a member of the Virginia, New York, and District of Columbia Bars.

tag: CPSC, General Counsel CPSC

Nordstrom Recalls Taper and Votive Candles Due To Fire Hazard

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 22, 2008 Release #08-170

Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 804-0806 CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908 Nordstrom Media Contact: (206) 373-3038

Nordstrom Recalls Taper and Votive Candles Due To Fire Hazard

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: Nordstrom “At Home” Taper and Votive Candles

Units: About 2,500

Importer: Nordstrom Inc., of Seattle, Wash.

Hazard: The candle's exterior coating can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Nordstrom has received four reports of flames or smoke coming from the candle or the exterior coating. One instance of property damage was reported but no injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Nordstrom “At Home” 10-inch taper candles and Nordstrom “At Home” votive candles. The taper candles were sold under style numbers NR-07059G and NR-07059S. The votive candles were sold under style numbers NR-07001G and NR-07001S. The candles came in silver and gold and were sold in a box of six. The style number can be found on a sticker at the bottom of the packaging.

Manufactured in: Taiwan

Sold at: Nordstrom stores nationwide from September 2007 through December 2007 for about $18 for the taper candles and about $12 for the votive candles.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using these candles immediately and return them to any Nordstrom store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Nordstrom at (800) 804-0806, 24 hours per day, visit the company’s Web site at www.nordstrom.com, or email contact@nordstrom.com

tag: CPSC, CPSC recall, Nordstrom recall, Nordstrom candle recall,

Stamina Products to Pay $105,000 Civil Penalty for Failure to Report Defects with Mini-Trampolines

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 22, 2008 Release #08-171

CPSC Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Stamina Products to Pay $105,000 Civil Penalty for Failure to Report Defects with Mini-Trampolines

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that a Missouri-based manufacturer of trampolines has agreed to pay the government a $105,000 civil penalty. The penalty settles allegations that Stamina Products, of Springfield, Mo., failed to report in a timely manner injuries from defective mini-trampolines. In April 2006, CPSC and Stamina Products announced the recall of about 668,000 mini-trampolines.

Between April 2002 and June 2005, Stamina Products received eight reports from consumers who alleged that the trampoline sprang back during the folding/unfolding process causing facial lacerations that required stitches, broken teeth, bruises, headaches, neck pain, broken facial bones, loss of mouth sensation, and blurred vision. Stamina Products failed to report these incidents to the CPSC in a timely manner. CPSC was finally informed of the incidents in July 2005.

Federal law requires firms to report to CPSC within 24 hours after obtaining information that a product contains a defect which could create a substantial product hazard, or creates an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death.

In agreeing to settle the matter, Stamina Products denies that it violated federal law.

Stamina Products to Pay $105,000 Civil Penalty for Failure to Report Defects with Mini-Trampolines
tag: Stamina Products, Mini-Trampolines, CPSC, CPSC recall,

CPSC Recalls For January 16th 2008

Photo Frames Recalled by The Gift Wrap Company Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Gift Wrap Co., of Atlanta, Ga., is voluntarily recalling about 600 Hanging Photo Frames. Surface paint on the photo frames contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Inversion Therapy Tables Recalled by Stamina Products Due to Fall Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Stamina Products Inc., of Springfield, Mo., is voluntarily recalling about 2000 Inversion Therapy Tables. A weld in the center of the inversion table can fail when the table is in an inverted position, posing a fall hazard to consumers.

Discount School Supply Recalls Play Mats Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Discount School Supply, of Monterey, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 60 Tic Tac Turtle Toss Mats. The paint on the Tic Tac Turtle Toss mats contains excess levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

John Deere Tractors Recalled Due to Collision Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Deere & Company, of Moline, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 5,400 John Deere Compact Utility Tractors. The forward drive pedal can get stuck, posing a risk of loss of control and injury to the operator and bystanders.

tag: CPSC, CPSC recall, John Deere Compact Utility Tractor recall, Tac Turtle Toss Mats recall, Stamina Products Inversion Therapy Table recall, The Gift Wrap Hanging Photo Frame recall

CPSC Recalls For 10th January 2008

Hunting Tree Stand Manufacturer Agrees To Pay $420,000 Civil Penalty

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that a Wisconsin-based tree stand manufacturer has agreed to pay the government a $420,000 civil penalty. The penalty settles a government lawsuit alleging that Ardisam Inc, of Cumberland, Wis., failed to immediately report to the CPSC serious injuries to hunters with its Big Foot and Lite Foot series hunting tree stands. In July 2004, 78,000 of these tree stands were recalled by the company.

Kash N’ Gold Recalls Tinker Bell Novelty Lamps Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kash N’ Gold Ltd., of Deer Park, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling 60,000 Tinker Bell Lamps. The surface paint on the lamps contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

A.O. Smith Recalls Exhaust Fan Electric Motors Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), A.O. Smith Electrical Products Co., of Tipp City, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 6,300 Whole-house Exhaust Fan Electric Motors. The fan’s electric motor can be miswired and overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Shims Bargain Recalls Pacifiers Due to Choking Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Shims Bargain Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 45,000 “BabyTown” Pacifiers. These pacifiers fail to meet federal safety standards for pacifiers. The pacifier shield is too small and could easily enter the mouth of an infant. Also, ventilation holes are too small and not placed to allow for the insertion of a tool to remove the pacifier when lodged in the mouth of a child. Finally, the package fails to display the required warning instructing consumers not to tie a pacifier around a child’s neck, which would present a strangulation hazard.

Torchiere Lamps Recalled By L G Sourcing Due to Fire Hazard; Lamps Sold Exclusively At Lowe’s Stores

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), L G Sourcing, Inc., of North Wilkesboro, N.C., is voluntarily recalling about 90,000 Portfolio Incandescent Torchiere Lamps. A short circuit in the lamps’ wiring can pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Coin Banks Recalled by TJ Promotions Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), TJ Promotions, of South El Monte, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 1,300 Fish Coin Banks. Surface paint on the coin banks contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

tag: CPSC, CPSC recall, TJ Promotions coin bank recall, Portfolio Incandescent Torchiere Lamp recall, L G Sourcing, Inc recall, Shims Bargain Inc recall, “BabyTown” Pacifier recall, Smith Electrical Products Co recall, Whole-house Exhaust Fan Electric Motor recall, Kash N’ Gold Ltd recall, Tinker Bell Lamp recall, Ardisam Inc fined, Big Foot and Lite Foot series hunting tree stand

CPSC Recalls For 3rd January 2008

Toy Wagons Recalled by Tricam Industries Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Tricam Industries Inc., of Eden Prairie, Minn., is voluntarily recalling 15,000 Metal Toy Wagons. Surface paint on the wagon bucket contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Bathroom Medicine Cabinets Sold at Lowe’s and The Home Depot Retail Outlets Recalled by RSI Home Products Due to Laceration Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), RSI Home Products, of Anaheim, Calif., is voluntarily recalling 8,600 Medicine Cabinets. The medicine cabinet’s mirrors can separate and break, posing a laceration hazard.

tag: CPSC, CPSC recall, Tricam Industries, Toy Wagons recall, Medicine Cabinet recall, RSI Home Products recall,

CPSC Recalls For 2nd January 2008

ATVs Recalled By KYMCO Due to Suspension Failure; Riders Can Lose Control of Vehicle

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), KYMCO USA, of Spartanburg, S.C., is voluntarily recalling 1,350 2006-2008 Model Year MXU 500 All Terrain Vehicles. The pivot bolts holding the rear suspension onto the frame can become loose, causing the rear swing arm to detach from the chassis posing a risk of injury or death to the operator.

tag: CPSC, CPSC recall, KYMCO USA, MXU 500 ATV

CPSC Recalls For 27th December 2007

Shopping Channel HSN Agrees to Pay $875,000 Civil Penalty

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that HSN LP (previously known as Home Shopping Network), of St. Petersburg, Fla., has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $875,000. The civil penalty settles allegations that HSN LP failed to report in a timely manner, as required by federal law, serious injuries and hazards with the Welbilt Electronic Pressure Cookers.

Gap Outlet Recalls Boys’ Jackets; Drawstring at Waist Poses Entrapment Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gap Outlet, operated by Gap Inc., of San Francisco, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 16,200 “Warmest Jacket” Boys’ Jackets. The jackets have a waist drawstring with a toggle that could become snagged or caught in small spaces or doorways, which can pose an entrapment hazard to children.

North American Breaker Co. Recalls Counterfeit Circuit Breakers Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), North American Breaker Co. Inc. (NABCO), of Burbank, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 50,000 Counterfeit Circuit Breakers. The recalled circuit breakers labeled “Square D” have been determined by Square D to be counterfeit and can fail to trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Tot Tower Blocks Recalled by eeBoo Corp.; Children’s Toy Can Pose Choking Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), eeBoo Corp., of New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 170,000 Tot Tower toy blocks. The plastic covering on the toy blocks can detach, posing a choking hazard to children.

World Dryer Recalls to Repair Hand and Hair Dryers Due to Electric Shock Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), World Dryer Corp., of Berkeley Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 25,000 World Dryer and Bradley Brand Hand and Hair Dryers. Some of the nozzles on these dryers are not grounded. If an electrical component comes into contact with an ungrounded nozzle, it can pose a shock hazard to consumers.

Tags: CPSC, CPSC Recalls

CPSC Recalls For 22ndDecember 2007

Super Magnet Toys Recalled by MTC Due to Aspiration and Intestinal Hazards

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Man’s Trading Company, of Brisbane, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 2,800 Super Magnet Toys. The magnet attached to the bottom of a small toy panda can detach. If swallowed or aspirated by young children, the magnets can attract each other internally and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Teething Rings Recalled by Empire Silver Due to Choking Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Empire Silver Company, of Brooklyn, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 1,000 Sterling Silver Teething Rings. The silver ball that holds the ring in place can separate and release the beads inside. This poses a choking and aspiration hazard to infants.

Pressure Cookers Recalled By Manttra Inc. Due to Burn Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Manttra Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 38,250 Pressure Cookers. If the pressure cookers are not closed properly, the lid can separate and allow hot contents to spill out. This poses a risk of burns to consumers.

Girls’ Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings Recalled by Liberty Apparel Due to Strangulation Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Liberty Apparel Co. Inc., of New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 12,000 Jewel brand girls’ hooded sweatshirts. The garments have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard to children.

Lenox Recalls Covered Warmer Dishes Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lenox Group Inc., of Bristol, Pa., is voluntarily recalling about 43,000 Covered Warmer Dishes with Racks. Flames from the tea candle can extend up the sides of the dish. In addition, a label on the bottom of the dish causes excessive smoke when exposed to the flame. This poses fire and burn hazards to consumers.

Tags: CPSC, CPSC Recalls

CPSC Recalls For 20th December 2007

Christmas Candle Sets Recalled By Specialty Merchandise Corp. Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Specialty Merchandise Corporation (SMC), of Simi Valley, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 13,000 Christmas Candle Sets. The snowman candle could tip over and the exterior coating on both candles can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

DeWALT Recalls Cordless Drills due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), DEWALT Industrial Tool Company, of Towson, Md., is voluntarily recalling about 346,000 DEWALT Cordless Drills. The trigger switch of the cordless drill can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

McQuay Recalls Air Conditioners/Heat Pumps Following Fires

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), McQuay International, of Minneapolis, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 8,800 Remington and McQuay “ComfortPac” Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps. Wires in the heater element can overheat and spark, posing a smoke and fire hazard to consumers.

US Consumer Product Safety Commission Acting Chairman Nancy Nord Applauds House Vote on Landmark Consumer Product Safety Legislation

The Acting Chairman thanks the U.S. House of Representatives for passing landmark legislation today that finally gives the CPSC the additional tools and resources to address the growing issue of imports and other important product safety issues.

AAFES Recalls “Soldier Bear” Toys Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), AAFES (Army & Air Force Exchange Service), of Dallas, TX, is voluntarily recalling about 11,400 Soldier Bear Toys. The surface paint on the toys contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

American Honda Motor Corp. Recalls Lawn Mowers Due to Laceration Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), American Honda Motor Corp., of Torrance, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 167,000 Honda Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers. The cutting blades could rotate under power when the control lever is released. The lawn mowers do not comply with mandatory federal safety standards for lawn mowers. The spinning blade poses a serious laceration hazard to consumers.

Stuffer Bear Recalled Due to Choking Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Victoria’s Secret Internet site

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Victoria’s Secret, of Columbus, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 80 Holiday Cosmetics Stuffer Bears. The neck medallion zipper pull can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Discount School Supply Recalls Measuring Chart Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Discount School Supply, of Monterey, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 13,000 Giant Measuring Charts. The paint on the grow chart contains excess levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Bombardier Recreational Products Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Crash Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP), of Quebec, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 480 Ski-Doo® Model Year 2008 MXZ X 600 RS Snowmobiles. A defect in the carburetor can prevent the throttle from freely returning to the idle position. This can result in an unexpected loss of control leading to a collision and cause serious injuries or death.


Tags: CPSC, CPSC Recalls

CPSC Recalls For Dec 19th 2007

Full Body Safety Harnesses Recalled by Gorilla Due to Fall Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gorilla Inc., of Flushing, Mich., is voluntarily recalling about 60,000 Full Body Safety Harnesses. The harnesses could fail during use, resulting in a hunter falling from the tree stand and suffering serious injuries or death.

Bicycle Helmets Recalled by Specialized Due to Failing Helmet Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Specialized Bicycles, of Morgan Hill, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 3,000 Specialized Bicycle Helmets. The helmets fail testing required under CPSC's safety standard for bicycle helmets. This can pose a head injury hazard to riders in a fall.

Deadly Danger: CPSC Urges Parents To Not Place Infants on Air Mattresses

The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning families nationwide that air mattresses are too soft for use with sleeping infants. Never place infants to sleep on air mattresses or other soft surfaces (such as water beds and adult beds), which are not specifically designed or safe for infant use.

Tags: CPSC, CPSC Recalls

CPSC Recalls For December 14th 2007

Venmar Ventilation Inc. Recalls Heat Recovery Ventilators Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Venmar Ventilation Inc., of Quebec, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 1,100 Infantino® Heat Recovery Ventilators. The thermal protector in these units can fail, posing a potential fire hazard to consumers.

Infantino® Recalls Infant Teethers Due to Choking Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Infantino® LLC, of San Diego, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 28,000 Infantino® Lion Teethers. The plastic nose can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

AutoZone Recalls Booster Cables Due to Electrical Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), AutoZone Parts Inc., of Memphis, Tenn., is voluntarily recalling about 140,000 Valucraft Booster Cables. The booster cables clamps were assembled incorrectly resulting in reverse polarity. This poses an electrical shock and explosion hazard to consumers.

Children’s Toys Recalled by Dollar Tree Stores Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Greenbrier International Inc., of Chesapeake, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 300,000 Baby Toys Baby Bead & Wire Toys and Speed Racer Pull Back & Go Action! Cars. The recalled toys contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Codee International Corp. Recalls Children’s Jewelry Due to Risk of Lead Exposure

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Codee International, of Northvale, N.J., is voluntarily recalling about 1,000 Codeena Princess Children’s Metal Jewlery pieces. The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Hooker Furniture Recalls Bunk Beds Due to Strangulation Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Hooker Furniture Corporation, of Martinsville, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 1,300 Bunk Beds. The bunk beds have gaps between parts of the upper bunk that could allow a child’s body to pass through but not a child’s head. This poses an entrapment or strangulation hazard to children and exceeds the space allowed by the federal bunk bed safety standard.

Children’s Water Globes Recalled Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard; Sold Exclusively at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Jo-Ann Stores Inc., of Hudson, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 60 Children’s Robbie Ducky Holiday Water Globes. The painted base of the water globes contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.


Tags: CPSC, CPSC Recalls

CPSC Warns Winter Storm Victims: Use Portable Generators Outdoors Only

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2007 Release #08-125

CPSC Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC Warns Winter Storm Victims: Use Portable Generators Outdoors Only

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a warning to consumers confronted with ice storms and severe winter weather. When there�s a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can�t see or smell it. A generator�s exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a matter of minutes.

Last year, at least 65 people died from generator-related CO poisoning. Many of the deaths occurred after winter storms knocked out power.

Follow these important generator safety tips:

• Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.
• Place portable generators outside only, far away from the home. And keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents.
• Read the label on the generator and the owner�s manual, and follow the instructions.
• Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.
• Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.

Last year, CPSC mandated a new danger label on generators manufactured after May 14, 2007. The label states that, "Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES."

CPSC has additional rulemaking underway on generators. The Commission directed staff to investigate various strategies to reduce consumers' exposure to CO and to enable and encourage them to use generators outdoors only. Those strategies include generator engines with substantially reduced CO emissions, interlocking or automatic shutoff devices, weatherization requirements, theft deterrence and noise reduction.

Tags: Winter Storm Victims, CPSC, Carbon monoxide, Portable Generators

CPSC Recalls For Today. 12/12/07

Horseshoe Magnets Recalled by United Scientific Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), United Scientific, of Waukegan, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 153,000 Horseshoe Magnets. Surface paint on the magnets contains high levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standards.

ROMI Recalls SCUBA Regulators Due to Drowning Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ROMI Enterprises, of San Leandro, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 6,000 Oceanic and AERIS SCUBA Regulator First Stages. An internal component that seals air between the high pressure first-stage and the intermediate pressure second-stage can fail. This can result in uncontrolled flow of air to the diver and pose a risk of serious injury or death.

Fitness Quest Recalls Eclipse Elliptical Trainers Due to Fall Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Fitness Quest Inc., of Canton, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 23,000 Eclipse® 1175e Elliptical Trainers. The cranks that connect the foot platforms to the rear wheel of the machine can break during exercise, posing a fall hazard to consumers.

Hairstyling Irons Recalled by Farouk Systems Inc. Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Farouk Systems Inc., of Houston, Texas, is voluntarily recalling about 5,700 WEE CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Irons. The iron�s �on/off� switch was installed incorrectly. When the iron is plugged in and switch is in the �off� position, the iron remains �on,� which could pose fire and burn hazards.

Sauder Woodworking Recalls TV Stands Due to TV Tip-over Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sauder Woodworking Co., of Archbold, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 30 TV Stands. The plastic feet of the TV stand can crack or break. The stability of the stand can be reduced, increasing the risk of a TV tipping-over.

Gamenamics Inc. Recalls Air-Powered Hockey Tables Due to Burn Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gamenamics Inc., of Elgin, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 1,100 Cordless Air-Powered Hockey Tables with Rechargeable Battery. The hockey table�s wires can overheat or melt, posing a burn hazard to consumers.

AtHome America Recalls Candles Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), AtHome America Inc., of Alsip, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 6,300 Four-wick Decorative Candles. The candle�s wicks are in close proximity causing the candle to burn unevenly and faster than expected, posing a potential fire hazard.

QVC Recalls Electric Toasters Due to Fire Hazard

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), QVC Inc., of West Chester, Pa., is voluntarily recalling about 13,000 Cook�s Essential Electric Toasters. The toaster can turn on without bread in the slots and ignite items placed on top of it, posing a fire hazard.

Tags: United Scientific recall, ROMI Enterprises recall, Fitness Quest Inc. recall, Farouk Systems Inc. recall, WEE CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Irons recall, Sauder Woodworking Co. recall, Gamenamics Inc. recall, AtHome America Inc. recall, QVC Inc. recall