FDA says no increased rates of cardiac events from Prilosec, Nexium

Based on everything now known at the agency, the reported difference in the frequency of heart attacks and other heart-related problems seen in the earlier analyses of the two small long-term studies does not indicate the presence of a true effect. Therefore, FDA continues to conclude that long-term use of these drugs is not likely to be associated with an increased risk of heart problems. FDA recommends that health care providers continue to prescribe, and patients continue to use, these products as described in the labeling for the two drugs.

Read the full press release here.

Parents and grandparents still wary of Chinese goods

It will interesting to crunch the sales numbers after the holiday season is over. Witness this:

"If it says China, I don't trust anything about it," said grandmother of six Theresa Stevens while shopping at L.T. Kids, a locally-owned speciality toy store. When her 2-year-old grandchild asked for a recalled Thomas the Train toy, Stevens said she went directly to an independent toy store to find a safe alternative.

"I'd rather spend more money or buy less toys if that's what it takes to be safe," Stevens said.

California Department of Public Health Warns Consumers Not to Drink Metromint Flavored Water

December 5, 2007 -- Dr. Mark Horton, director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), today warned consumers not to drink Metromint brand flavored water because it may be contaminated with a bacterium called Bacillus cereus, a microorganism that may cause vomiting or diarrhea. Soma Beverage Co., LLC., of San Francisco is voluntarily recalling all bottles of Metromint brand flavored water (Peppermint, Spearmint, Orangemint and Lemonmint) with a "Best Before" date prior to 2008/12/21 (Dec. 21, 2008) and produced at its California facility because they may be contaminated with Bacillus cereus. The "Best Before" date is on the shoulder of the bottle.

The product was distributed nationwide to grocery stores, including those in California, and sold on the Internet.

There have been no confirmed illnesses in California associated with this product to date. There is an illness complaint in Illinois that is possibly linked to consumption of this product.

The products were packaged in clear plastic 16.9-ounce bottles with a black M on the front and the lettering "KSA" in a rectangle located on back of the bottle in the lower right-hand corner.

The products were sold at the following locations in Northern California: Albertson's, Andronico's, Berkeley Bowl, BevMo!, Brown and Cole, Central Markets, Cost Plus World Market, Draeger's, Elephant Pharmacy, Fiesta Markets, Fred Meyer, Food Emporium, Haggen, Harmon's (UT), Lunardi's, Marlene's, Super Supplements, Mollie Stone's, New Seasons, PCC, Pharmaca, PW Markets, QFD, Rosauers, Safeway, Thriftway, Top Foods, Town and Country, Uwajimaya, Whole Foods Market, Wild Oaks Market, Yokes and Zupans.

In Southern California, the products are sold at AJ's Fine Foods, Albertson's, Baron's Markets, BevMo!, Bristol Farms, Clark's Nutrition, Cost Plus World Market, Erewhon Market, Fry's, Gelson's, Henry's, Jensen's, Jimbo's Naturally, Lazy Acres, Mother's Market, New Frontiers, One World Fine Foods, Organic To Go, Pacific Coast Greens, Pavillions, Pharmaca, Ralph's, Sprouts, Sunflower, Vitality Juice and Java Bar, Vons, Wally's Win and Spirits, Wild Oats Market and Whole Foods Market. Illness caused by Bacillus cereus may be either a vomiting or a diarrheal type. The vomiting type is characterized by nausea and vomiting within 30 minutes to six hours after consumption of contaminated foods. Duration of symptoms is generally less than 24 hours. The diarrheal type usually includes onset of abdominal cramps and watery diarrhea six to 15 hours after consumption of contaminated food. Symptoms may last for 24 to 48 hours.

Consumers in possession of the recalled product should discard it or return it to the point of purchase. Individuals who have become ill from drinking the product should contact their health care provider for evaluation.

Consumers with questions may contact the company at (415) 979-0781, Ext. 101.

Nautilus Recalls Bowflex® Ultimate 2 Home Gyms Due to Risk of Injury

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Bowflex® Ultimate 2 Home Gyms

Units: About 68,000

Importer: Nautilus Inc., of Vancouver, Wash.

Manufacturer: Land America Ltd., of China

Hazard: The fasteners used to secure the rod box to the frame of the equipment can come loose, allowing the resistance rods or rod box to separate and strike the user or a bystander.

Incidents/Injuries: Nautilus has received ten reports of rod box separation, including three reports of consumers suffering bruised arms, sore elbows, and a sore back.

Description: The recalled home gyms are equipped with pulleys, resistance rods, and other equipment, which allow the user to perform a variety of exercises. “Bowflex Ultimate 2” is written on the vertical part of the frame.

Sold at: Specialty fitness retailers nationwide and through direct sales from June 2005 to August 2007 for about $2,300.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled home gym until a repair kit is installed. Registered owners are being sent a free repair kit. Owners who have not received a repair kit by the end of the first week in January 2008 should contact the firm.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Nautilus at (800) 259-9019 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bowflex.com

Polaris Recalls Certain Ranger Utility Vehicles Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Model Year 2008 Polaris Ranger RZR 800 EFI Utility Vehicles

Units: 330

Manufacturer: Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Hazard: The utility vehicle’s fuel tank can leak, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received four reports of the fuel tank leaking. No injuries have been reported.

Description: Model Year 2008 Polaris Ranger RZR 800 EFI utility vehicles with model number R08VH76AD (red), and model number R08VH76AG (green) are included in this recall. They were manufactured between August 21, 2007 and October 3, 2007. The model number decal is located under the passenger seat.

Sold by: Polaris dealers nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for about $10,300.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled utility vehicles immediately and contact their local Polaris dealer to arrange for a fuel tank inspection free of charge, and if necessary, a free repair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Polaris at (888) 704-5290 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT every day, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.polarisindustries.com

Collins International Co. Recalls Oscillating Ceramic Heaters Sold at Menards Retail Stores 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: Oscillating Ceramic Heaters

Units: About 20,000

Importer: Collins International Co., Ltd., of Fair Lawn, N.J.

Hazard: The heaters can overheat, smoke, or ignite which could pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Collins International has received seven reports of the heaters overheating, smoking, or igniting, including four reports of minor property damage to carpets and floors. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves 1500 watt oscillating ceramic heaters model EB38005. The heater has a white plastic housing with the name "Heat-Wave" in black on its top. A label on the bottom of the product contains the model and the control number "ETL 3090262."

Manufactured in: China

Sold at: Menards’ stores nationwide from September 2006 through March 2007 for about $25.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the heaters and return them to the nearest Menards’ store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Collins International toll-free at (866) 877-1889 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s Web Site at www.collinsinternational.com

TKS Children’s Pants Recalled by Sears; Drawstrings at Waist Pose Entrapment 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: TKS-brand children’s pants

Units: About 6,100

Importer: E.S. Sutton Inc., of New York, N.Y.

Hazard: The recalled pants have a ribbon belt at the waist that can pose an entrapment or entanglement hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled pants were sold in two styles. The first style (model numbers 62240 and 62254) is denim with a brown ribbon belt on the waistband. These pants have a sewn-on patch and an embroidered butterfly. They were sold in infant sizes 12 months, 18 months and 24 months and toddler sizes 2T, 3T and 4T. The second style (model number 62226) is khaki with a fabric belt on the waistband. They have two cargo pockets, one with an embroidered heart. The cuffs have buttons and plaid trim on the underside. They were sold in toddler sizes 2T, 3T and 4T.

Manufactured in: China

Sold at: Sears stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $16.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the belt to eliminate the hazard.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sears.com

Basic Editions Girls' Clothing Sets Recalled by Kmart; Drawstrings at Waist Pose Entrapment 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: Basic Editions-brand girls' clothing sets

Units: About 13,000

Importer: Millennium Apparel Group, of New York, N.Y.

Hazard: The recalled pants have a drawstring at the waist that can pose an entrapment or entanglement hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled two-piece clothing set has olive-colored knit pants with a fully-tunneled waist drawstring and a pink short-sleeved top with necktie. The set was sold in the following girls' sizes: 4/5, 6/6X, 7/8, and 10/12.

Sold at: Kmart stores nationwide during July 2007 for about $17 per set

Manufactured in: Pakistan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Kmart at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.kmart.com

Sears recalls Personal Identity Children’s Sweaters with Drawstrings Due to Strangulation 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: Personal Identity-brand V-neck sweaters with hood

Units: About 5,200

Importer: A & R Knitwear, of New York, N.Y.

Hazard: The recalled sweaters have a drawstring through the hood, posing a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled sweaters have a V-neck, hood and kangaroo pocket. The sweaters are either pink with charcoal stripes or blue with white stripes. They were sold in the following girls’ sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large.

Sold at: Sears stores nationwide during September 2007 for about $34.

Manufactured in: Pakistan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstring to eliminate the hazard.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sears.com

Note: CPSC was alerted to this hazard by the State of Connecticut’s Department of Consumer Protection.

RC2 Recalls Potty Training Seats 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: The First Years 3-in-1 Flush and Sounds Potty Seats

Units: About 160,000

Importer/Distributor: RC2 Corp., of Oak Brook, Ill.

Hazard: Decorative plaque inserted into the back of the potty seat could have orange paint that contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves the First Years 3-in-1 Flush and Sounds potty training seats. Each seat has either a yellow chair with a green removable seat and a purple lift out-pot or a blue chair with a white removable seat and green lift out-pot. The words "100 Acre Wood" are molded on the chair back. The plaque inserted into the back of the seat contains molded Winnie the Pooh and Tigger characters.

Manufactured in: China

Sold at: Mass and specialty retailers nationwide from April 2006 through August 2007 for between $20 and $25.

Remedy: Consumers should keep these recalled items away from young children and should contact RC2 to receive a permanent clear protective cover that covers the plaque. The unit can still be used as a potty seat.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.recalls.rc2.com

RC2 Recalls The First Years™ Children’s Feeding Seats Due to Fall 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: The First Years Newborn-to-Toddler Reclining Feeding Seats

Units: About 100,000

Importer/Distributor: RC2 Corp., of Oak Brook, Ill.

Hazard: The restraining straps can pull out of the waist strap slots, posing a fall hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: RC2 has received 38 reports of straps pulling out or nearly pulling out of waist strap slots. There have been 12 reports of children falling out of the chairs.

Description: The First Years Newborn-to-Toddler Reclining Feeding Seat can be adjusted between reclining and upright positions. The seat includes a tray, reversible cushion and a three-point safety belt. One side of the seat cushion has a sewn-in label at the top which says "the first years by Learning Curve." This recall includes all feeding seats except those with an "R" stamped inside a raised circle located on the far left and right of the back of the seatback or those with waist strap slots that are nine inches apart.

Manufactured in: United States

Sold at: Various retailers nationwide from November 2006 through October 2007 for about $30.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the feeding seat immediately and contact RC2 to obtain free replacement straps.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.recalls.rc2.com

Scope Apparel recalls hooded sweatshirts for strangulation 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: Boys’ hooded sweatshirts

Units: About 72,000

Distributor: Scope Apparel L.P., of Houston, Texas

Hazard: The garments have a drawstring through the hood which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The boys’ small and medium sized hooded zip-up sweatshirts have various designs on the front, and were sold in charcoal, navy blue and brown colors. “Whatever” and “RN#39209” are printed on the tag sewn into the jacket.

Manufactured in: Bangladesh, India, China and Pakistan

Sold at: Mass merchandise and specialty children’s clothing retailers nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for between $20 and $40.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard, or return the sweatshirts for a full refund to either the place of purchase or Scope Apparel.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Scope Apparel toll-free at (888) 692-7129 ext. 0 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.scopeimp.com

Note: CPSC was notified about these garments by the Wisconsin Department of Consumer Protection.

Starbucks Recalls Coffee Mugs Due To Burn 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: Starbucks Fusion Coffee Mugs

Units: About 167,000

Importer: Starbucks Coffee Co., of Seattle, Wash.

Manufacturer: lab921, Seattle, Wash.

Hazard: The plastic handle can detach from the body of the mug when filled with hot liquids, posing a minor burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Starbucks has received 23 reports of handles detaching from the mug, including nine that resulted in minor burns.

Description: This recall involves two styles of Starbucks 14-ounce Fusion Coffee Mugs. The mugs are white and have a black plastic handle, and a stainless steel base. The cups have “Starbucks Coffee” printed on a black stamp or a brown original Starbucks logo stamp.

Manufactured in: China

Sold at: Mugs with the “Starbucks Coffee” stamp were sold at Starbucks stores nationwide from February 2007 through November 2007 for about $11. Mugs with the original logo stamp were sold only at Starbucks Pike Place store in Seattle, Washington during the same period and for the same price.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the mugs and contact Starbucks for instructions on returning the cups for a full refund. Starbucks is also offering a free beverage as an incentive to return the recalled mugs.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Starbucks at (800) 624-8678 anytime or visit the firm’s web site at www.starbucks.com

Home Depot Recalls Holiday Figurines Due to Lead Paint 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: Holiday Figurines

Units: About 64,000

Importer: The Home Depot, of Atlanta, Ga.

Manufacturer: Creative Design, of Hong Kong

Hazard: Surface paint on the holiday figurines contains lead.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled holiday figurines are painted plastic snowmen and bears. The SKU number is printed on the bottom of the product.

Product	Size	SKU Number
Holiday Bear Door Greeter	17” x 16”	894-825
Snowman with “Let it Snow” Sign	Tabletop item	894-893
Three Snowmen with “Joy” Sign	13” x 17”	898-964
Snowman Votive Holder	7.5” x 7.5”	967-467

Manufactured in: China

Sold exclusively at: The Home Depot stores from October 2007 through November 2007 for between $10 and $20.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the holiday figurines and return them to any Home Depot store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact The Home Depot at (800) 394-2064 or visit the firm’s Web site at www.homedepot.com

Harry & David recalls some chocolate because of undeclared nuts

From the FDA:

Harry & David Operations Corp., of Medford, Oregon, is voluntarily recalling approximately 5880 tubs of the Milk & Dark Chocolate, White Chocolate Macadamia because they may contain macadamia nuts not declared on the ingredient statement, and 4400 tubs of the Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, Macadamia Nut because they may contain macadamia nuts and peanuts not declared on the ingredient statement. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to these nuts (macadamia or peanut) run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The products are packaged in 1 lb. 10 oz clear plastic tubs containing three flavors of Moose Munch ® Confection, a caramel corn and chocolate confection.

Harry & David is recalling all Milk & Dark Chocolate, White Chocolate Macadamia with a nutrition label that states Milk Chocolate, Caramel, Dark Chocolate at the top. The potentially affected lot codes are lot codes 304 NXXX NN:NN, 305 NXXX NN:NN, 306 NXXX NN:NN or 307 NXXX NN:NN. In the lot number on the plastic tub, the X is a letter and N is a number.

Harry & David is recalling all Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, Macadamia Nut with a nutrition label that states Milk Chocolate, Caramel, Dark Chocolate at the top. The potentially affected lot codes begin with 264 NXXX NN:NN, 265 NXXX NN:NN or 266 NXXX NN:NN. In the lot number on the plastic tub, the X is a letter and N is a number.

The lot codes are ink jetted on the sides of the tubs in black ink.

The Milk & Dark Chocolate, White Chocolate Macadamia was produced from October 31 through November 3 rd, 2007, and was distributed exclusively throughout the United States in Harry and David Stores, beginning on November 9, 2007. The Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, Macadamia Nut was produced from September 21 st through September 23 rd, 2007, and was distributed exclusively throughout the United States in Harry and David Stores, beginning on October 10, 2007.

There have been no injuries reported to date. Anyone concerned about a potential illness associated with this product should contact a physician immediately. This problem occurred when tubs with nutrition labels for another product were used for these items.

Consumers with questions about the recalled product may phone the Customer Service division at 800- 233-1101 , 24 hours a day. Customers may arrange for refunds through this number as well.

Sweetwater Valley Farms recalls cheese

More cheese news from the FDA:

Sweetwater Valley Farms, Inc. of Philadelphia, TN is recalling Southern Cheddar Jack Volunteer Special Cheese because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Southern Cheddar Jack Volunteer Special Cheese, Lot Number 539 was distributed in 7, 10, 15 ounce, and 5 pound blocks and through retail stores in Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Alabama. The product was also distributed to 48 contiguous states in gift baskets marketed by the firm’s website.

This product was distributed between September 19, 2006 and November 18, 2007.

No illnesses have been reported.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished product contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the distribution of this lot as the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem

Consumers who have purchased lot number 539 of this product are urged discard it or ship it back to the company for a full refund. Contact the company’s consumer affairs department at 1-877-862-4332 for further information.

Jack Cheese recalled by Le Gourmet Connection

From the FDA:

Le Gourmet Connection of Lebanon, TN is recalling Jack Cheese, lot number 539, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Jack Cheese Lot Number 539 was distributed in 10 ounce blocks and through Jungle Jim’s, Fairfield , Ohio.

This product was distributed between August 28, 2007 and November 19, 2007.

No illnesses have been reported.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished product contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the distribution of this lot as the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to discard it and to contact the company at (615) 444-3500 for a full refund.

Fears of unsafe products prompt parents to make their own toys

The return of the cardboard box!

The recalls since June of more than 4 million toys with lead paint — from certain Winnie the Pooh play sets to some Barbie accessories — have educated many local parents, causing them to rethink their approach to toys.

Susan and Dace Campbell, of Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood, for example, now make many toys themselves for 1-year-old son Arlan. They keep it simple, making blocks from old boxes covered with contact paper, or creating rolling toys made from oatmeal containers. Their son often adds his own touch with stickers.

In addition to knowing where their toys came from, Susan Campbell says it also forces them to be creative.

It can't hurt. Read the rest here from the Seattle Times.

Photo by Jason Cartwright; some rights reserved.

Is microwave popcorn safe?

From the AP:

The smell of buttery microwave popcorn can be intoxicating. But can it also be dangerous?

The question took on new significance recently when a doctor alerted federal regulatory agencies that a Colorado man who ate at least two bags every night for several years had "significant lung disease" similar to that seen in some microwave popcorn workers.

The illness - the first suspected case in a consumer - was linked to the man's habit of inhaling fumes from extra-buttery microwave popcorn, which contains the chemical diacetyl. The additive gives foods a buttery taste and has been linked to severe lung disease in some microwave popcorn and flavor plant workers.

Click here to read the rest.

Fisher Price Recalls Go Diego Go Boat Toys Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

On October 25 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Go Diego Go Animal Rescue Boats

Units: About 38,000

Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.

Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal standard prohibiting lead paint on children’s toys.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The toy is an orange and yellow boat that squirts water. Cartoon character Diego is in the driver’s seat. “Fisher Price,” product number K3413, and a date code between 137-7HF and 223-7HF are marked on the toys.

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from June 2007 through October 2007 for about $15.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price in order to receive a free replacement toy. Consumers need to return the recalled toys to Fisher-Price.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price at (888) 299-0579 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Children’s Toy Rakes Sold at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores Recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Children’s Toy Rake

Units: About 16,000

Importer: Jo-Ann Stores Inc., of Hudson, Ohio

Hazard: Surface paint on the handle of the rake can contain excessive levels of lead paint, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled children’s rake has a green handle with a yellow duck head attached to the handle. The rake has seven purple tines, also known as teeth. The rake is about 24 inches long. “Robbie Ducky™ Garden Collection Rake” is printed on a tag attached to the handle.

Sold exclusively at: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores nationwide from January 2007 through September 2007 for about $7.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy rake away from children and return it to any Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Jo-Ann Stores Inc. toll-free at (888) 739-4120, option 7, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email the firm at guest.services@jo-annstores.com, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.joann.com

RC2 Recalls Knights of the Sword Toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Britain’s “Knights of the Sword” Series Toys

Units: About 800

Importer/Distributor: RC2 Corp., of Oak Brook, Ill.

Hazard: Surface paints on the toy knights contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The three recalled silver knight toys are mounted on red horses sold individually in see-through blister cards. “Britains” and “Knights of the Sword” are printed on the top of the card in the packaging. The recalled toys include a mounted silver knight on a red horse with an axe; a mounted silver knight on a red horse with two hands on a raised weapon; and a mounted silver knight on a red horse with a lance.

Sold at: Specialty toy stores nationwide from April 2004 through March 2006 for about $8.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take these recalled toys away from young children immediately and contact RC2 to receive a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://recalls.rc2.com

Target Recalls Children’s Toy Gardening Tools and Chairs Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Happy Giddy Gardening Tools and Children’s Sunny Patch Chairs

Units: About 350,000

Importer: Target, of Minneapolis, Minn.

Manufacturer: Starite International Ltd., of Taiwan

Hazard: The surface paint on the recalled gardening tools and chairs contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall includes the Happy Giddy Gardening Tools and the Sunny Patch Children’s Chairs.

Gardening tools: caterpillar trowel with an orange and multi-colored handle; kitty cat broom with pink flowers and green handle; pink and green cultivator with a solid green tool portion and pink flowers on the handle; orange and green wood handle hoe and rake with orange flowers; pink and green shovel and trowel with pink flowers; green, orange and light blue snail push broom; multi-colored trowel, hoe, rake with orange on the tool body; multi-colored shovel with solid red on the shovel and eyes on the top of the handle; red and blue owl shaped broom with bristles painted blue, with yellow and black large eyes on the face.

Children’s Chairs: multi-colored children’s Sunny Patch chairs with a giraffe, monkey, and elephant on the back. The cloth seat and back are striped in orange, yellow, green and blue. The chameleon, butterfly and lady bug chair are not included in the recall.

Sold at: Target stores nationwide from August 2006 through August 2007 for between $3 and $10.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the products away from children and return the item to the nearest Target store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Target at (800) 440-0680 between 7 a.m. and 6 pm. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.target.com

RC2 Corp. Recalls Additional Thomas & Friends™ Wooden Railway Toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Various Thomas and Friends™ Wooden Railway Toys

Units: About 200,000 (1.5 million other Thomas & Friends railway toys were recalled on June 13, 2007)

Importer/Distributor: RC2 Corp., of Oak Brook, Ill.

Hazard: Surface paints on the toys can contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves five toys from the Thomas and Friends Wooden Railway product line: the all-black cargo car, toad vehicle, olive green sodor cargo box and all-green maple tree top and signal base accessories. The front of the packaging has the logo “Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway” in the upper left-hand corner. A tracking code may be located on the bottom of some of the products. Toys marked with codes containing “WJ” and “AZ” are not included in the recall.

Recalled Product Name & Tracking Codes

All-Black Cargo Car – Included only in the Brendam Fishing Dock Set. The car is labeled “CARGO CAR” and has either no tracking code or one of the following codes on its undersides: 26833i 28233i 23243i00 24643i00 25343i00 27443i00 32043i00 34743i00 01553i00 04553i00 13353i00 14753i00 15453i00 18353i00 Cargo cars sold in other sets are not included.

Toad vehicle with brake lever – The vehicle is labeled “TOAD” and has the tracking code 16560W00 on its underside.

Olive Green Sodor Cargo Box – The side of the cargo box says “SODOR”, the box was included only in the Deluxe Cranky the Crane Set.

All-Green Maple Tree Top and Green Signal Base Accessories – Included only in Conductor’s Figure 8 Sets.

Sold at: Toy stores and various retailers nationwide from March 2003 through September 2007 for between $10 and $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the recalled toys away from young children immediately and contact RC2 Corp. for a replacement toy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RC2 toll-free at (866) 725-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://recalls.rc2.com

BCI Recalls Swing Sets

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Single Post Swing Sets

Units: About 670

Manufacturer: BCI Burke Company LLC, of Fond du Lac, Wisc.

Hazard: The connection on the top beam of the swing set can break, causing the swing beam to collapse, posing a fall hazard to the user. A user or bystander also can be injured by the falling top rail.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received four reports of the swing set beam breaking and one report of child with bruises after falling from the swing.

Description: The recall includes the Single Post Swing Set (model 550-0033) and added bay swings (model 550-0035) with belt or bucket seats. The swings are made with a 2-3/8-inch diameter top beam that is welded to a formed plate on each end to attach to the upright post.

Sold by: BCI Burke or BCI Burke Company representatives from January 2000 through August 2007 for between about $900 to $1500.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the product immediately and remove the existing swings from the top beam immediately. Consumers can re-install the swings once the repair kit is received and installed with the current beam. BCI Burke will contact the owners directly by mail and provide a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, please contact Burke customer service at (800) 356-2070 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bciburke.com (PDF), or e-mail the firm at customerservice@bciburke.com

REI Recalls Children’s Trailer Bicycles

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm named below in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Novara Afterburner Trailer Bicycles

Units: About 5,200

Distributor: Recreational Equipment Inc.(REI), of Kent, Wash.

Hazard: The children’s trailer bicycle can detach from the adult bicycle, posing a fall hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: REI has received one report of a children’s trailer bicycle detaching from the adult bicycle. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the Novara Afterburner trailer bicycle, a single-wheel children’s bicycle that attaches to, and cannot be operated independently of, an adult bicycle.

Sold at: REI stores nationwide from February 2007 through June 2007 for about $160.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the bicycle trailer, visit the nearest REI store or contact REI for a free replacement part, a full refund or credit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact REI at (800) 426-4840 between 4 a.m. and 11 p.m. PT seven days a week, visit the company’s Web site at www.rei.com or contact your local REI store.

Back to Basics Products Recalls Iced Tea Makers Due to Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: IT400 Iced Tea Makers

Units: About 10,000

Importer: Back to Basics Products LLC, of West Bend, Wis. and Bluffdale, Utah

Hazard: The iced tea maker’s components can fail, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None.

Description: The recalled Iced Tea Maker (Model #IT400) is mostly white and has a 2.5 quart glass pitcher. The recall includes only those products with a date code of CA1307 or CA1307-A. The model number is embossed on the bottom of the unit, and the date code is printed on a small white sticker, which is also on the bottom of the unit.

Sold at: Bon-Ton department stores and hardware stores nationwide, the JCPenney catalog, and Internet retailers from April 2007 through July 2007 for between $40 and $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using and unplug the recalled iced tea makers immediately and contact Back to Basics Products to receive a free replacement product or refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call the firm at (800) 874-4084 between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday; visit the firm’s Web site at www.backtobasicsproducts.com; or e-mail the firm at IT400recall@btbproducts.com

Largest crib recall over: over 1,000,000

From the Chicago Tribune:

Federal regulators today recalled about 1 million cribs made by Simplicity Inc. because the drop rail on some of the nation's best-selling models can detach from the crib, creating a dangerous gap that has led to the deaths of at least three children.

Following a Chicago Tribune investigation to be published this weekend, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of cribs sold under both the Simplicity and Graco name. It is the largest recall of full-size cribs since the agency was created in the 1970s.

"We want parents to know,'' CPSC spokesman Scott Wolfson said in an interview. "We do not want your child in that crib tonight.

Click here to read more.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission bulletin released today follows:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is announcing today a voluntary recall with Simplicity Inc., of Reading, Pa., of about 1 million cribs. The drop-side can detach from the crib, which can create a dangerous gap and lead to the entrapment and suffocation of infants. CPSC is aware of two deaths in Simplicity manufactured cribs with older style hardware, including a 9-month-old child and a 6-month-old child, where the drop-side was installed upside down. CPSC is also aware of seven infant entrapments and 55 incidents in these cribs.

CPSC is also investigating the death of a 1-year-old child in a Simplicity crib with newer style hardware, in which the drop-side was installed upside down. CPSC is warning parents and caregivers to check all Simplicity cribs to make sure the drop-side is installed right side up.

The drop-side failures result from both the hardware and crib design, which allow consumers to unintentionally install the drop-side upside down. This, in turn, can weaken the hardware and cause the drop-side to detach from the crib. When the drop-side detaches, it creates a gap in which infants can become entrapped.

CPSC is also aware of two incidents that occurred when the drop-side was correctly installed with older style hardware, though the upside down installation greatly increases the risk of failure.

The recalled Simplicity crib models include: Aspen 3 in 1, Aspen 4 in 1, Nursery-in-a-Box, Crib N Changer Combo, Chelsea and Pooh 4 in 1. The recall also involves the following Simplicity cribs that used the Graco logo: Aspen 3 in 1, Ultra 3 in 1, Ultra 4 in1, Ultra 5 in 1, Whitney and the Trio.

The recalled cribs have one of the following model numbers, which can be found on the envelope attached to the mattress support and on the label attached to the headboard: 4600, 4605, 4705, 5000, 8000, 8324, 8800, 8740, 8910, 8994, 8050, 8750, 8760, and 8996.

The cribs, which were made in China, were sold in department stores, children’s stores and mass merchandisers nationwide from January 1998 through May 2007 for between $100 and $300.

As an immediate precaution, consumers should check to see if the drop-side is installed right side up. To do this, check to see that the slightly rounded rail with the decorative groove is installed at the top and the plain rail is on the bottom. Next, consumers should make sure the drop-side is securely attached to the tracks in all four corners.

Close-up of a Correctly Installed Drop-side

Close-up of an Incorrectly Installed Drop-side

If the drop-side is installed upside down or not securely attached, consumers should stop using the crib immediately. Incorrect installation can cause permanent damage to the hardware and re-installing the drop-side using the same hardware is unsafe.

Consumers should check to see if their crib contains the recalled hardware. Recalled hardware has a flexible tab at the bottom of the lower tracks and the top of the lower tracks are open. Newer hardware, which is not subject to the recall, has the flexible tab located at the top of the lower track, and a permanent stop at the bottom.

Photo of Older Style Hardware





Photo of Newer Style Hardware

Consumers who have a crib with older style hardware can receive a free repair by immediately contacting Simplicity toll-free at (888) 593-9274 between 8:30 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET on Friday, and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, or by visiting the firm’s Web site at www.simplicityforchildren.com

Consumers who have a crib with newer style hardware and have installed the drop-side upside down or have broken hardware, should also contact Simplicity immediately.

Keystone Manufacturing Co. and QVC Recall Convection Ovens

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Cook’s Essentials Convection Ovens with Pull-Out Rotisserie and Deni Convection Ovens with Rotisserie

Units: About 32,000

Retailer: QVC of West Chester, Pa.

Distributor: Keystone Manufacturing Co. Inc., of Buffalo, N.Y.

Hazard: Wires behind the control panel can overheat, posing fire and electric shock hazards.

Incidents/Injuries: QVC has received 49 reports of incidents, including five minor burns, five electrical shocks and 11 incidents of minor property damage to kitchen cabinets and countertops.

Description: This recall involves the Cook’s Essentials Multi-Function Convection Oven with Pull-Out Rotisserie (model number 910500), which was also sold as the Deni Convection Oven with Rotisserie (model number 10500). The model number can be found on the bottom of the oven. These are countertop ovens and the brand name “Cook’s Essentials” or “Deni” is found on the front right panel.

Sold through: The Cook’s Essentials brand was sold exclusively through QVC and the Deni brand was sold through various on-line retailers from October 2006 through May 2007 for about $125.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the oven and contact QVC or Keystone to receive a replacement oven or a refund. QVC and Keystone have notified consumers by telephone and by mail to stop using the oven.

Consumer Contact: Consumers who bought a Cook’s Essentials oven through a QVC broadcast or at QVC.com, and who have not been contacted by QVC, should call QVC at (800) 367-9444 between 7 a.m. and 1 a.m. ET seven days a week. Consumers who bought a Cook’s Essentials oven at a QVC outlet or retail store should return the oven to the store at which it was purchased for a refund. Consumers who bought a Deni brand oven and who have not been contacted by Keystone should call Keystone at (800) 336-4822 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Consumers can also visit QVC’s Web site at www.qvc.com or Deni’s Web site at www.deni.com

Hayes Company Inc. Recalls Outdoor Candles Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: "Avant Yarde" Decorative Glaze Outdoor Candles

Units: About 83,000

Importer/Distributor: The Hayes Company Inc., of Valley Center, Kan.

Hazard: The candle's wax can catch fire causing a high flame, which poses a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received two reports of consumers who suffered minor burns to their hands when they tried to extinguish flames coming from the candle.

Description: The recall involves three styles of outdoor citronella candles with a glazed lower portion that is brown, blue, or green. The item number 18134 can be located on the top left part of the label on the bottom of the candle.

Sold at: Ace Hardware stores nationwide from February 2006 through June 2007 for about $8.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled candles immediately and return them to any Ace Hardware store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For further information, contact Hayes at (800) 838-5053 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hayesco.com.

Ohalee, Inc. Recalls Some Youth ATVs for Mechanical Hazards

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Ohalee FA-A70 Youth ATVs

Units: About 36

Importer: Ohalee Inc., of City of Industry, Calif.

Hazard: These youth ATVs lack front brakes and a tire pressure gauge, the date of manufacture is not printed on side of the tires, and the front suspension is solid and does not allow for travel. Additionally, the flag pole bracket is not the correct size, and the handlebars do not have padding covering sharp edges. There is no storage location for the owner’s manual, and the manual itself does not contain complete information on the safe operation and maintenance of the ATV. These defects could result in an unsafe riding condition, posing a risk of injury to young drivers.

Incidents/Injuries: None.

Description: This recall involves the Ohalee FA-A70 Youth ATVs, which has the name “Ohalee” on the right and left side of each ATV. The 70cc size ATVs were available in the following colors: red, blue, and black.

Sold by: Odes Motorcycle Industry nationwide from June 2006 through December 2006 for about $360.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the ATVs and contact the retailer for a full refund. Ohalee, Inc. will contact the consumers and notify them the full refund policy.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Ohalee toll-free at (866) 867-5976 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit their Web site www.ohalee.com

Honeywell recalls some Apex Security Systems; could be defective

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted in cooperation with the CPSC.

Name of Product: Apex-Brand Destiny 6100 and 6100AN Security System Control Panels

Units: About 1,000

Distributor: Honeywell International Inc., of Syosset, N.Y.

Manufacturer of Control Panel: Ademco de Juarez SRL, of Mexico

Manufacturer of Memory Chip: XICOR, of Milpitas, Calif.

Hazard: The memory chip in the control panel could lose programmed values in the event of a power outage exceeding four hours. If this occurs, the panel could fail to communicate with a central monitoring station and not sound an audible notification in the event of a fire or home intrusion.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports that the product failed to work during installation. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

Description and Models: The recall involves Apex-Brand Destiny 6100 and 6100AN home security system control panels with XICOR-brand memory chips. Only units with a date code between K015 and K057 are subject to the recall. The date code appears on the product packaging. The date code includes a letter to designate the year (K=2007) followed by three numbers that indicate the day. For example, a product manufactured on the 5th day of January 2007 would have the date code "K005."

Sold at: Security distributors nationwide from January 2007 through March 2007 for between $280 and $325. Distributors sell the control panels to alarm dealers who directly install them.

Manufactured in: Mexico

Remedy: Honeywell International is contacting customers directly and is providing a replacement control panel.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Honeywell International at (800) 573-0154 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or go to the firm’s Web site at www.security.honeywell.com

Fisher-Price Recalls Bongo Band Toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has 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

Fisher-Price Recalls Geo Trax Locomotive Toys Due To Lead Paint Fears

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has 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

Mattel Recalls Various Barbie® Accessory Toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has 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 the chart below. The product and date code numbers are printed on the largest component of the toy sets.

Product	Product Number	Date Code Number	Product Photo
Barbie® Dream Puppy House™ (lead paint on dog)	J9485	286-6JX through 365-6JX or 001-7JX through 232-7JX
Barbie® Dream Kitty Condo™ Playset (lead paint on cat)	J9486	286-6JX through 365-6JX or 001-7JX through 232-7JX
Barbie® Table and Chairs Kitchen Playset (lead paint on dog, chip platter, dinner plates)	K8606	All
Barbie® Bathtub and Toilet Playset (lead point on cat)	K8607	All
Barbie® Futon and Table Living Room Playset (lead paint on cat)	K8608	All
Barbie® Desk and Chair Bedroom Playset (lead paint on dog)	K8609	All
Barbie® Couch & Table Living Room Playset (lead paint on purse)	K8613	All

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

NettoCollection Cribs recalled for safety hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: "Moderne" and "Loft" Cribs

Units: About 400

Importer/Distributor: NettoCollection LLC, of New York, N.Y.

Hazard: The crib slats can separate from the side rails, posing an entrapment and strangulation hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: NettoCollection has received three reports of the side rail spindles separating from the top rail. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The crib side rails are made of wood and sold with a brown finish. Only cribs with model numbers NC-137 and NC-140 and date codes 9/03 and 02/04 are included in the recall. The model numbers, date codes and "Made in Poland" are printed on a label on the crib end panels.

Sold at: Juvenile furniture stores nationwide from October 2003 through June 2005 for about $1,350.

Manufactured in: Poland

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the crib immediately and contact NettoCollection to receive two replacement side rails.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact NettoCollection toll-free at (866) 996-3886 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's Web site at www.nettocollection.com

Bunk beds recalled for collapse hazard

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Jubee Bunk Beds

Units: About 500

Distributor: d-Scan Inc., of South Boston, Va., a subsidiary of Tvilum-Scanbirk, of Denmark

Hazard: The recalled bunk beds do not comply with federal safety standards and have wooden side slat supports that can separate from the bed frame causing the upper bunk to collapse.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm is aware of seven incidents in which the upper bunk collapsed after the side slat supports separated from the bunk bed’s frame. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The twin bunk beds are designed for children and were sold in a kit to be assembled by consumers. Only model number 82008 is included in this recall. The bunk beds are made of maple wood with a four-step ladder attached to the side and three pullout drawers under the bottom bunk. These bunk beds have no markings or labeling.

Sold at: Specialty furniture stores nationwide and on various Web sites from December 2004 through April 2006 for about $600.

Manufactured in: Denmark

Remedy: Consumers who have not already received and installed a free repair kit for the side slat supports should immediately stop using the bunk beds until repairs can be made. Contact the firm to receive a free repair kit that can easily be installed at home. Retailers have contacted some consumers who purchased the bunk beds directly.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact d-Scan Inc. at (800) 932-2006 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.tvilum-scanbirk.com

Toys "R" Us recalls coloring cases over lead fears

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Imaginarium Wooden Coloring Cases

Units: About 27,000

Importer / Retailer: Toys "R" Us Inc., of Wayne, N.J.

Hazard: The printed ink on the outer packaging of the wood case contains lead. Also, some of the black watercolor paint contains excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves the Imaginarium brand 213 Piece Wooden Coloring Case which includes crayons, pastels, colored pencils, fiber pens, paintbrush, pencil, water colors, palette, white paint, ruler and pencil sharpener in a light tan wooden carrying case. The case measures about 14 inches high by 19 inches wide.

Sold by: Toys "R" Us stores nationwide and toysrus.com from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $20.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the products away from children and return the item to the nearest Toys "R" Us store for store credit.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Toys "R" Us at (800) TOYSRUS/869-7787 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday, and between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday, or visit the company’s Web site at www.toysrus.com

Berko Electric Toe-Space Heaters Recalled Due to Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Products: Toe-Space Electric Heaters

Units: About 84,000

Manufacturer: Berko Electric, of Peru, Ind., now known as Marley Engineered Products, of Bennettsville, S.C.

Hazard: If the fan stops working and the heater continues to run, the unit can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Marley has received 29 reports of fires resulting in property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves electric, toe-space heaters typically installed in kitchens and bathrooms at floor level in the recessed space under cabinets. The recall includes Berko Electric catalog numbers TS, TS-1 and TS-1A and Emerson Electric "Chromalox Comfort Heating" and "Environmental Products" catalog number KSH2000. The heater is controlled by a wall thermostat or a thermostat mounted on the front of the heater. The heater has a removable, black metal grille that measures 23 1/2 -inches wide and 3 1/2 -inches tall with five sets of openings, each with seven horizontal louvers.

Sold by: Berko Electric wholesale distributors nationwide from 1972 through February 1985 and Emerson Electric wholesale distributors from 1980 through February 1985 for between $70 and $170.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately turn off the heater at the thermostat and, if possible, at the home’s circuit breaker or fuse. Consumers should contact Marley to determine if they have a recalled heater and for further instructions.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Marley at (800) 642-4328 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.berkomep.com/ts.htm

Yorkcraft™ Emergency Tool Kits recalled for fire and shock hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Emergency Tool Kits

Units: About 43,000

Distributor: B&F System Inc., of Dallas, Texas

Hazard: Booster cables in the recalled kits can have undersized wiring and inadequate connections, posing a fire and shock hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled emergency tool kits have booster cables in combination with other tools and safety equipment. The recall includes the following models:

#MTHEK41 - Yorkcraft™ 41 piece SAE & Metric kit

#MTHEKSM - Yorkcraft™ 6 piece kit

#MTHEKREF - Yorkcraft™ 15 piece kit

#MTHEK15 - Yorkcraft™ 15 piece kit

#MTEKIT2 - Yorkcraft™ Emergency Tool Kit

Sold at: Flea markets and various Internet sites nationwide from June 2003 through May 2007 for between $5 and $45.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the booster cables in the recalled kits immediately and contact the firm to receive a refund for the cost of the cables.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact B&F System toll-free at (877) 586-2926 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bnfusa.com

Nearly 300,000 Aloha Breeze portable electric heaters recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: “Aloha Breeze” Portable Electric Heaters

Units: About 281,000

Importer/Distributor: Aloha Housewares, Inc. of Arlington, Texas

Hazard: The heater can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Aloha Housewares has received seven reports of heaters melting, smoking or catching fire, including one report of minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recalled electric heaters are white-colored with the name “Aloha Breeze” printed on the front. The recall includes model number 05226 with date codes of 07/05, 08/05 and 11/05. The model number and date code are printed on the silver label located on the bottom of the heater.

Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide from July 2005 to July 2007 for about $15.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled heaters immediately and contact the firm for instructions on receiving a free replacement.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Aloha Housewares at (800) 295-4448 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or send an e-mail to ahitexaslg@aol.com

Hooded Sweatshirts Recalled for Strangulation Hazard

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Zippity Hoodie and Sherpa Full Zip Children’s Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings

Units: About 400

Distributor: Life is Good Inc., of Boston, Mass.

Hazard: The sweatshirts have a drawstring through the hood, posing 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 by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall includes Girls “Zippity Hoodie” (style GHZCOLL) and Girls “Sherpa Full Zip Hoodie” (style GHZBASH) children’s sweatshirts. Style numbers are printed on the hang tag of the garments. The sweatshirts are brown, pink or light blue and “Life is Good” is printed on the front of the sweatshirts. The sweatshirts were sold in children’s sizes small to large.

Sold at: Independent retailers in Boston and Chatham, Mass. and Flagstaff, Ariz. from July 2007 through August 2007 for between $40 and $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard and contact Life is Good to receive a refund or store credit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Life is Good toll-free at (888) 339-2987 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or contact the firm via e-mail at Customer_Service@lifeisgood.com