Shindaiwa recalls backpack blowers

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: Shindaiwa Backpack Blowers Units: About 23,000

Importer: Shindaiwa Corp., of Tualatin, Ore

Manufacturer: Shindaiwa Kogyo Co. Ltd, of Hiroshima, Japan

Hazard: The blower’s impeller (fan) can separate from the base and break apart, causing plastic pieces to be blown out of the machine, and pose a laceration and impact hazard to consumers. The flying pieces also can cause property damage and injury to bystanders. Note: These backpack blowers were previously recalled due to a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Shindaiwa is aware of 13 incidents involving broken impellers. One incident involved a minor head injury and minor property damage to a nearby automobile.

Description: This recall involves Shindaiwa Models EB8510 and EB8510RT. All models up to serial # 7014728 are included. The backpack blowers weigh approximately 24 pounds and include Serial Numbers through February 2007 production (S/N 702XXXX) which are located on the side label. These machines are black and blue with a red and black label that reads, “EB8510, Shindaiwa.”

Sold by: Shindaiwa dealers nationwide from September 2005 through January 2007 for about $600.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the backpack blowers immediately and contact Shindaiwa for the closest dealer location to schedule a free inspection and impeller replacement. Consumers who have registered their equipment should have already received correspondence from Shindaiwa about this recall.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Shindaiwa at (800) 521-7733 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.shindaiwa.com

Aqua Dots in the news again; lawsuit alleges injury

Every parent's nightmare, in Texas:

A month after the public recall of Aqua Dots toy craft kits, Eddie and Summer Gerrald's 1- year- old ingested the product and required emergency medical treatment for vomiting and experiencing states of unconsciousness. The parents state that since ingestion, the toddler continues to suffer from sleeplessness, fevers and vomiting.

The Houston residents filed suit against the toy's distributors Spin Master Inc. and Target Corporation on April 4 in the Marshall Division of the Eastern District of Texas.

Aqua Dots is a craft toy kit that contains small, colored liquid-filled beads that when sprayed with water become adhesive and fuse together in a plastic tray. In November 2007 and in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Spin Master recalled 4.2 million Aqua Dots sets.

The toys, manufactured in China, were supposed to be made with a nontoxic compound found in glue, but instead the Aqua Dots beads were coated with an industrial solvent, 1, 4 butanediol. If the solvent is ingested, the body converts it into GHB, also know as the "date rape" drug.

More here.

Hazardous Levels of Selenium in dietary supplements

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on April 9 that it has found hazardous levels of selenium in samples of certain flavors of the dietary supplement products "Total Body Formula" and "Total Body Mega Formula." The FDA has received 43 reports of persons from nine states who experienced serious adverse reactions using these products.

On March 27, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use "Total Body Formula" in flavors Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar and "Total Body Mega Formula" in the Orange/Tangerine flavor of these products after receiving reports of adverse reactions in users in Florida and Tennessee. The adverse reactions generally occurred after five to 10 days of daily ingestion of the product, and included significant hair loss, muscle cramps, diarrhea, joint pain, deformed fingernails, and fatigue.

Selenium, a naturally occurring mineral, is needed only in very small amounts for good health. Selenium can boost the immune system. Generally, normal consumption of food and water provides adequate selenium to support good health. Excessive intake of selenium is known to cause symptoms to include significant hair loss, muscle cramps, diarrhea, joint pain, fatigue, loss of finger nails and blistering skin.

Presently, FDA has 43 reports of adverse reactions including cases from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

Analyses of samples of the products by FDA laboratories have now found most of the samples contain extremely high levels of selenium--up to 40,800 micrograms per recommended serving, or more than 200 times the amount of selenium per serving (i.e., 200 micrograms) indicated on the labels of the products.

The FDA continues to investigate the matter to determine how excessive amounts of selenium were added to the products.

FDA is advising consumers to stop using "Total Body Formula" in flavors Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar and "Total Body Mega Formula" in the Orange/Tangerine flavor and discard them by placing them in a trash receptacle outside of the home. "Total Body Formula" products are sold in eight-ounce and 32-ounce plastic bottles. "Total Body Mega Formula" is sold in 32-ounce plastic bottles. Both product lines are distributed by Total Body Essential Nutrition of Atlanta, which is listed on the products' labels.

Consumers who have been taking the products and have experienced adverse reactions should consult their health care professional. Consumers and health care professionals are encouraged to report adverse events to the FDA's MedWatch program at 800-FDA-1088 or online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/how.htm.

The sole distributor of the "Total Body Formula" and "Total Body Mega Formula" products has voluntarily recalled the affected products. According to the company, the products were distributed nationwide.

Cracker Barrel issues allergy alert

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. is recalling 5-ounce bags of chocolate-covered almonds and 5-ounce bags of chocolate double-dipped peanuts because the packaging is labeled incorrectly. The product labeled as containing chocolate-covered almonds may contain chocolate double-dipped peanuts and the product labeled as containing chocolate double-dipped peanuts may contain chocolate covered almonds. People who have an allergy or a severe sensitivity to peanuts or almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Products were available at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations in 41 states. Products were packaged in a clear 5-ounce polybag with a red and white diamond pattern on the label.

No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported to date. No other candies or packaged food items are a part of this recall, and there is no health risk for consumers who are not allergic to peanuts or almonds.

The recall was initiated after the issue was reported by Cracker Barrel store management upon receipt of the product. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the supplier’s labeling and packaging processes. This labeling error was limited in scope and no other food products were involved.

Consumers who purchased these products are urged to return them to any Cracker Barrel location for a full refund. Consumers with questions about the recall should call Cracker Barrel at 800-333-9566.

Source: FDA

Lawsuit alleges asbestos in CSI toy kits

A California asbestos awareness group sued CBS Corp, a toy maker and several retailers on Friday, claiming they sold toy crime-scene kits based on the hit CBS series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" that contained the cancer-causing substance.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleges that laboratory tests revealed the fingerprint dusting powder in the kits contained "substantial quantities of tremolite asbestos ... one of the most lethal forms of asbestos."

New York-based manufacturer Planet Toys Inc pulled the kits from the market late last year over the group's claims but said that multiple tests had shown no traces of asbestos.

The company said on its Web site it had issued a "stop sale" on all "CSI" fingerprint kits "until further information can be ascertained as to the discrepancy between our respective test findings."

Source: Reuters.

Dalmatian Press recalls children's board book sets

On April 8, 2008, 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: Little Builder Children’s Board Book Sets with Toys

Units: About 17,000

Importer: Dalmatian Press LLC, of Franklin, Tenn.

Hazard: The cylinder on the toy concrete mixer and the tailgate on the toy dump truck can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves Little Builder Children’s Board Book sets with ISBN 1-49373-215-9. The sets include four concept board books (colors, tools, 123, shapes) and two toy trucks (dump truck and concrete mixer truck).

Sold at: Wal-Mart, Levy Home Entertainment, Lion Sales of NW Brunswick, Farris Wholesale Outlet, Crane Book Sales, Ingram Book Co., BPDI Corp., Books A Million and Christmas Tree Shop stores nationwide and on the Internet at Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com from August 2007 through February 2008 for about $9.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys from young children and return the entire book set to the retailer where purchased for a refund or exchange.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Dalmatian Press toll-free at (866) 418-2572 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.Dalmatianpress.com

Magnetic dart boards recalled

On April 8, 2008 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: Fun ‘N Games Magnetic Dart Boards

Units: About 870,000

Importer: Henry Gordy International Inc., of Plainfield, N.J.

Hazard: Small magnets at the ends of the darts can detach. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description and Models: This recall involves magnetic dartboards with a black, green, blue, and white checkered design, and a red bulls eye. The magnetic dartboards measure about 5 ½ inches wide and were sold with two 2 ¾-inch long magnetic darts. The darts magnetically attract to the dart board.

Sold Exclusively at: Family Dollar stores nationwide from September 2002 through March 2008 for about $1.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled magnetic boards away from children and return them by first class mail to: Henry Gordy International Inc., 809A Market Street, Hermann, MO 65041 for a full refund including tax and shipping costs.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Henry Gordy International Inc., at (888) 790-2700 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

Crash tests of midsized cars released

Lots of improvement apparently, although side and rear protection remains weak:

Occupant protection in side impacts of midsize cars is improving as automakers introduce safer designs and add side airbags as standard equipment. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently completed front, side, and rear tests of seven 2008 model midsize cars, both moderately priced and luxury: Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Infiniti G35, Kia Optima, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima, and Saturn Aura. All earn the highest rating of good for occupant protection in frontal crashes. All but the Kia Optima earn the top rating of good for side crash protection (Malibu's rating applies to cars built after February 2008). Rear crash protection results vary more widely. Among the seats/head restraints evaluated, only those in the Optima earn a good rating.

"The side impact results represent a huge change from just four years ago," says Institute senior vice president David Zuby. "In 2004 we tested 10 midsize moderately priced cars, and all 10 were rated poor in their standard configurations without side airbags." In the 2004 tests, only the previous generations of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Malibu earned good ratings when tested with side airbags, which then were optional equipment.

"Side airbags were mostly optional in our first round of side impact tests of midsize cars," Zuby says. "A major change is that side airbags are standard in every one of the seven midsize cars we tested this time around. Auto manufacturers have been moving quickly to make side airbags standard, even on lower priced models."

Read the rest here at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

With warm weather coming, watch out for pool and spa dangers

A timely warning:

The 15-year-old went underwater to see how long she could hold her breath when suddenly, something pulled on her, slamming her back against the bottom and sending her legs up toward the sky.

Walker dislodged herself and noticed her back hurt badly. Later she saw how her skin had been sucked into the drain leaving an imprint on her back.

Her mom dubbed it a "Florida tattoo." But it's no joke. That mark demonstrates how close her daughter came to dying.

I figured Walker had gotten off the drain because she's athletic and strong.

But experts in suction entrapment, the term used to describe what happened, told me that she was saved by a couple of inches of fabric.

"Her bathing suit strap stopped her from making a full seal. If it hadn't, she would have never gotten off," said Anthony Sirianni, president of Stingl Products, a company that sells safety devices that prevent these types of accidents.

More here.

Sam Adams recalls some beer for possible presence of glass

During a routine bottle inspection at one of our breweries, we detected possible defects in a small percentage of bottles resulting in the random presence of bits of glass, most the size of grains of sand, but some small slivers in some bottles as well. Based on this sample, we quickly began testing bottles of Samuel Adams at all of our breweries and identified that the problem appeared to be isolated to a single glass plant of the five that supply us.

More here.

Sudden vehicle acceleration in the news again

Some in-depth reporting on the Toyota Tacoma from the Detroit Free Press:

It's a wonder Frank Visconi walked away from the crash that turned his new Toyota Tacoma pickup into an unrecognizable mush of metal, plastic and dirt. But Visconi has a different wonder -- why Toyota doesn't believe his complaints of sudden acceleration....

Toyota spokesman Bill Kwong says the company has found no problems with the Tacoma that would explain the complaints.

"We don't feel it's an issue with the vehicle," he said. Regulators "get sudden acceleration complaints from consumers for various manufacturers ... and in most cases they have found it's a misapplication of the pedals by the driver."

But attorneys and safety advocates argue that sudden acceleration complaints are symptoms of defects, including electronic failures in increasingly complex vehicle-control systems that may leave no trace and can't be easily reproduced by a mechanic.

If there "were truly human error, there would be a proportional distribution across models," said Clarence Ditlow, who has spent years researching sudden acceleration as head of the Center for Auto Safety in Washington. "It's very difficult to explain how some makes and models have higher numbers of complaints than others absent some flaw in the vehicle."

Malt-O-Meal recalls cereals for possible salmonella contamination

Malt-O-Meal announced on April 5, 2008 that it is voluntarily recalling its unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat Cereals produced with "Best If Used By" codes between April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") and March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809") because they may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recalled product was distributed nationally, marketed under the Malt-O-Meal brand and as some private label brands including Acme, America's Choice, Food Club, Giant, Hannaford, Jewel, Laura Lynn, Pathmark, Shaw's, ShopRite, Tops and Weis Quality. A comprehensive listing of impacted products can be found at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this situation. All other Malt-O-Meal products are unaffected by this action and are safe for continued sale and consumption. The products affected by this recall represent less than one-half of one percent of the company's annual production of ready-to-eat cereal.

"Our first and highest priority is the safety of the consumers who use our products," said Malt-O-Meal President and CEO Chris Neugent. "It's important that we spread the word about this situation quickly and broadly in order to remove even the slightest possibility that someone will consume something harmful. We apologize for this situation and promise to do everything to complete the recall as quickly as possible."

The recall was initiated after the company's internal routine food safety testing detected the presence of Salmonella in a product produced on March 24, 2008. The company immediately commenced an investigation to determine the root cause of this one positive finding as well as the extent of any possible exposure. Initial results from this follow-up investigation indicate that additional product may have been exposed to this contaminant. Thus, out of an abundance of caution to protect consumers, the company has chosen to voluntarily remove all unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat products with "Best If Used By" codes between April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") and March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809"). Investigation into the source of the Salmonella has determined a root cause of this situation and corrective measures have been taken to ensure that there is no reoccurrence of this issue.

Persons infected with Salmonella may experience a variety of symptoms and illnesses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, persons infected with Salmonella may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more severe illnesses, some potentially life threatening.

Consumers who have purchased any products covered by this recall are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-665-9331. Information regarding this recall, including images of the Malt-O-Meal product packaging, also will be posted to the company's website at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.

Source: The FDA

Dollar Tree recalls plush insect toys

On April 7, 2008, 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: Cuddly Cousins Plush Insect Toys

Units: About 300,000

Retailer: Dollar Tree Stores Inc., of Chesapeake, Va.

Importer: Greenbrier International Inc., of Chesapeake, Va.

Hazard: The recalled plush insect toys contain small parts, posing a choking hazard to small children.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled plush insect toys come in six designs: Lady Bug, Bumble Bee, Caterpillar, Snail and two Butterflies. The toys measure nine inches to 10 ½ inches in length. The lady bug is black with six legs, a red back with four black dots and orange eyelids. The bumble bee is black and yellow with six legs, sheer white wings and red eyelids. The caterpillar has four sections that are yellow, pink, green and orange with seven legs connected on each side and purple eyelids. The snail is yellow with dark pink eyelids and a two tone brown shell. One butterfly is blue and yellow with sheer purple wings with four orange dots and light pink eyelids. The second butterfly is a two tone pink with blue eyelids and sheer green wings with four yellow dots. The product number is 903995 and UPC is 6 39277 03995 8 with a date code of 71.

Sold at: Dollar Tree, Dollar Bill$, Dollar Express, Greenbacks, Only One $1, and Deal$ stores nationwide from March 2007 through December 2007 for about $1.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled plush insect toys from children and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Dollar Tree Stores Inc. at (800) 876-8077 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.dollartree.com

Toys "R" Us recalls Imaginarium Activity Centers for choking hazard

On April 3, 2008, 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: Imaginarium Multi-Sided Activity Centers and Jungle Activity Centers

Units: About 16,400

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

Manufacturer: Taizhou Orient Toys Company Ltd. (Multi-Sided Activity Centers), and Shanghai Cosmos Gift Industry Company Ltd. (Jungle Activity Centers), of Shanghai, China.

Hazard: Small parts on the toys can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: Toys “R” Us has received 12 reports of small parts detaching from activity centers. No injuries have been reported.

Description and Models: This recall involves the Imaginarium Multi-Sided and Jungle activity centers. The multi-sided activity center has moveable block letters, clock face, sliding shapes and gears. The jungle activity centers have peg jumping monkeys, sliding fish, abacus beads, bead mazes and other animal-themed activities. “Imaginarium” and the name of the activity center are printed on the packaging. Item numbers 69042 (multi-sided) and 69083 (jungle) are printed on the back of the box, near the bar code.

Sold exclusively at: Toys “R” Us stores nationwide and www.toysrus.com from August 2007 through February 2008 for between $20 and $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the activity centers from children and return the toys to the nearest Toys “R” Us for a refund or store credit. Consumers can go to http://www.toysrus.com/safety/safetyFAQ.cfm for more information.

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

Gas water heaters recalled for fire and carbon monoxide hazards

On April 3, 2008 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: Natural and Propane Gas Water Heaters

Units: About 1,500

Manufacturer: A.O. Smith Water Products Co., of Ashland City, Tenn.

Hazard: The water heater’s flue gas temperatures can exceed safe limits and produce excessive temperatures in the venting unit, posing a fire hazard. Also, the water heater’s exhaust can leak into the surrounding room, posing a carbon monoxide hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves 75 gallon natural and propane gas water heaters. “A.O. Smith” or “State” is printed on the side of the unit. A.O. Smith and State model and serial numbers included in this recall are listed in the chart below. Model and serial numbers are printed on the water heater’s rating plate.

Brand Name	Model Number	Serial Number Ranges
A.O. Smith	FCG-75 300	L07A071460 through L07A144966 or M07A009387 through M07A072884
	FCG-75 301
State	GS6 75 XRR S
	GS6 75 CRR S

Sold by: Independent contractors and plumbers nationwide from November 2007 through January 2008 for between $1,000 and $2,500.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled water heater and contact A.O. Smith to arrange for a free repair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact A.O. Smith toll-free at (866) 880-4661 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hotwater.com

Wal-Mart recalls candleholders for fire and laceration hazards

On April 3, 2008 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: Holiday Times Candleholders

Units: About 61,000

Importer: Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, Ark.

Hazard: The candle holders could tip over, posing a fire hazard. Also, the glass holder could break, posing a laceration hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves three Holiday Times candle holders shaped as a Santa Claus, a snowman, and a goblet. The goblet is made of glass. A tea light candle sits inside the holders. “Holiday Times” is printed on the product hang tag.

Sold exclusively at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide from September 2007 through February 2008 for between $13 and $17.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled products and return them to Wal-Mart for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Wal-Mart at (800) 925-6278 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the company’s Web site at www.walmartstores.com

"Main Street Drag" kids' sunglasses recalled

On April 3, 2008 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: Children’s Sunglasses

Units: About 144,000

Importer/Distributor: StyleMark Inc., of Ormond Beach, Fla.

Hazard: Surface paint in the orange lettering on the temples of the sunglasses contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled children’s sunglasses have Main Street Drag characters on the bottom of one lens. The sunglass frames have dark metallic blue or dark metallic red fronts and gray checkered sides. “Main Street Drag” is printed in orange at the temples. Style number DI25K7116 is printed on the left temple. No other styles are included in this recall.

Sold at: Payless, Walgreen’s, Academy Sports, and CVS stores nationwide from October 2007 through March 2008 for between $6 and $9.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled sunglasses away from children and contact StyleMark for instructions on returning the sunglasses for a free replacement pair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact StyleMark toll-free at (866) 928-1913 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.stylemark.net

Goodman heating and cooling units recalled for fire hazard

On April 3, 2008 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product.

Name of Product: Package Gas-Electric Heating and Cooling Units

Manufacturer: Goodman Manufacturing Co. L.P., of Houston, Texas

Units: About 1,000

Hazard: The serial plates on the units contain inaccurate information that could result in the use of undersized installation wiring, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None.

Description: This recall involves Goodman single package gas-electric heating and cooling units with model numbers GPG13480901AC, GPG13481151AC, GPG13600901BB, GPG13601151BB, and GPG13601401BB, and with serial numbers beginning 0712, 0801, and 0802. The model and serial numbers are found on the serial plate attached to the control compartment door on the front of the unit.

Sold by: Heating and cooling equipment dealers nationwide from December 2007 through February 2008.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Goodman is directly contacting consumers with the recalled units to arrange for a free replacement of the serial plates and free inspection of the installation wiring.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Goodman at (800) 394-8084 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the company’s Web site at www.goodmanmfg.com

Children's Sweatshirts recalled for strangulation hazard

On April 2 the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Hooded Youth Sweatshirts and Jackets

Units: About 7,400

Manufacturer: Brents-Riordan Inc. LLC, of Shreveport, La.

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: This recall involves the Youth Hooded Sweatshirt (item # 11037Y-39) and the Youth Insulated Bomber with Hood (item # 1113Y-39). The item number is found in a label located underneath the care label. The sweatshirts have a camouflage design and “Photoflauge™” is printed on them.

Sold at: Various retail stores nationwide from July 2007 through December 2007 for between $20 and $30.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard or return the sweatshirts to either the place of purchase or Brents-Riordan for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the company toll-free at (866) 835-6357 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.brentsinc.com

Contaminated pet food settlement leaves owners cold

"As far as the 'settlement,' I certainly hope it is, at a minimum, going to reimburse pet owners for the vet bills for the treatment of the sick and deceased pets," said Carol. V. of Rhode Island.

Her two cats -- Jessica and Smudge -- became gravely ill last year after eating Menu's Special Kitty food.

Jessica made a remarkable recovery, but the 15-year-old cat went back into renal failure last December. The family made the difficult decision to euthanize Jessica.

Carol isn't sure Menu's settlement will cover any of her vet bills. She didn't join any of the class action lawsuits filed against the company in the wake of its massive March 16, 2007, recall.

More here at Consumer Affairs.

Cabot Recalls Deck Cleaner for Inhalation and Fire Hazard

On April 2 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: Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner

Units: About 24,000

Distributor: Cabot Stains (a division of Valspar Corp.), of Newburyport, Mass.

Hazard: One of the components of the composite cleaner can react with metal foil residue on the packaging, releasing heat and chlorine gas. This poses a fire and inhalation hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Cabot has received one report of the composite cleaner’s plastic container partially melting and emitting a chlorine odor. No injuries were reported.

Description: This recall involves the Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner #3502. The deck cleaner is a granular concentrate that, when mixed with water, is used to clean composite surfaces such as decks, railings, steps, fences and siding. It was sold in a 2-pound plastic container. The label on the container reads: “Cabot Composite Cleaner” and has number 3502 at the bottom of the front of the label.

Sold at: Home improvement centers and hardware stores nationwide from February 2007 through February 2008 for about $20.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the product and return it to the store of purchase for a full refund. If the container looks deformed or if it feels hot to the touch, immediately call Cabot anytime to arrange for the safe handling of the product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Cabot at (877) 755-3336, or visit the company’s Web site at www.cabotstain.com/recall (pdf)

Lock and Leash™ Locks recalled for lead paint violation

On April 1, 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: Lock and Leash™ Locks

Units: About 27,000

Importer: Master Lock, of Oak Creek, Wis.

Manufacturer: Fullyear-Brother Enterprise Co. Ltd, of Taiwan

Hazard: Red surface paint on the locks contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves red Lock and Leash™ locks with model number 1551D. The locks have a matching red coiled cable used to anchor items. Master Lock® is printed in white above the combination display. Other colors are not affected by this recall.

Sold at: Hardware stores and Internet retailers from March 2007 through January 2008 for about $8.

Manufactured in: Taiwan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled locks and return them to Master Lock Company Return Goods c/o All in One Warehouse, 2050 North Smokey Lane, Suite B, Nogales, AZ 85621 for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Master Lock at (800) 464-2088 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT or visit the firm’s Web site at www.masterlock.com (pdf)

Serenity Spa Hot Tubs recall

On April 1 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Serenity Spa Hot Tubs

Units: About 1,670

Manufacturer: Gecko Alliance of Quebec, Canada

Hazard: The hot tub’s spa control can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Gecko Alliance has received 28 reports of the spa control overheating, including one incident of damage to spa equipment. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the Hydropool Serenity Series Spa hot tubs with serial numbers 01350XXXX through 03210XXXX. The serial numbers are printed on the right side of the spa control. The Gecko spa control (SSPA-1) has model number 0202-205097 printed on it.

Sold Exclusively by: Hydropool dealers throughout Northeastern United States in Serenity brand spas from January 2002 through December 2004 for between $3,900 to $8,200.

Manufactured in: Canada

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the hot tubs and reduce the water temperature control to the minimum setting. Consumers should contact Gecko Alliance’s Back-Pak support center to receive the free retrofit enclosure kit. The kit will be provided with a full set of instructions. Instructions also are available at www.back-pak.com. Consumer should not use their spa until after the retrofit enclosure kit is installed.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the Back-Pak support team toll-free at (800) 784 3256 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET or visit www.back-pak.com

Hamilton Beach recalls toasters

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: Hamilton Beach® and Proctor-Silex® Toasters

Units: About 482,000

Importer: Hamilton Beach Brands Inc., of Glen Allen, Va.

Hazard: The toasters can remain “on” (energized) after popping up, and can ignite flammable items covering or in contact with the toaster, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Hamilton Beach has received at least 63 reports of toasters that remained “on” despite being in the “up” position. There are no reports of injuries or fires.

Description: The recalled Hamilton Beach® and Proctor-Silex® toasters are black, red, white, chrome or brushed chrome with 2-slice or 4-slice openings. Hamilton Beach or Proctor-Silex is printed on the side of the toasters. Only specific series codes of each model are included in this recall. The model number and series code are printed on the bottom of the toasters.

Toaster Model Numbers
22145B	22779
22145BC	22900
22450	22903
22559	22903H
22625	24450
22627C	24559
22635	24657
22657	24779
22658

Sold at: Department stores, mass merchandisers, grocery stores, home center stores, and other stores retail stores nationwide, and various online retailers from August 2007 through February 2008 for between $13 and $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled toasters and contact Hamilton Beach for instructions to receive a free replacement toaster.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hamilton Beach at (800) 574-6800 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hamiltonbeach.com for Hamilton Beach® toasters, and www.proctorsilex.com for Proctor-Silex® toasters.

JC Penney recalls deep fryers

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

Name of Product: Cooks Deep Fryers

Units: About 27,000

Importer: JCPenney, of Plano, Texas

Hazard: The deep fryer has a faulty heating element which can cause it to overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: JCPenney is aware of five incidents involving the deep fryers, including one report of a minor burn and three reports of damaged countertops.

Description: The Cooks deep fryer has a brushed stainless steel exterior, a wire mesh basket with a handle, a lid with a window and black handles. The deep fryer has a 1/3-gallon capacity. “Cooks” is stamped on the side of the deep fryer. Model number 22016 is printed on the bottom of the deep fryer.

Sold exlusively at: JCPenney’s stores nationwide, catalog and at www.jcp.com from August 2007 through January 2008 for about $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the deep fryer and return it to the nearest JCPenney store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact JCPenney toll-free at (888) 333-6063 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.jcp.com

Consumer Product Safety Reform Act passes Senate

Strong support for this legislation:

The U.S. Senate on Thursday approved Sen. Mark Pryor's legislation that would make major changes to consumer product safety law. The Senate approved the bill, called the "Consumer Product Safety Reform Act," by a 79-13 vote after four days of debate.

"It provides new safety safeguards that emphasize resources, accountability, disclosure and testing _ from the factory floor to the store shelves," said Pryor, D-Ark.

The bill calls for a public database of consumer complaints, bolsters the Consumer Products Safety Commission to help it certify the safety of overseas products, bans lead in children's goods and sets new standards for safe toys. The Bush administration and other critics said the database unfairly could taint manufacturers. But President Bush has not threatened a veto.

The House's version has many differences, including a lower cap for jury awards.

Killer stoves in the spotlight again

Killer stoves?

It sounds like a bad horror movie, but it’s for real. Consumer advocates estimate that there have been at least 33 deaths and 84 serious injuries in recent years from stoves that suddenly tip over and burn or kill someone underneath.

Most of the victims have been children scalded by whatever is bubbling on top of the stove, or elderly people trying to get something in or out of the oven....

The solution is simple. An anti-tip bracket should be installed with every stove to keep it steady and upright while in use.

In a recent settlement of a class-action lawsuit, Sears agreed to install the necessary brackets on about four million free-standing or slide-in stoves that were sold, delivered, and connected by the store between July 2, 2000 and September 18, 2007. The company also agreed to install anti-tip brackets on all free-standing stoves delivered over the next three years.

The settlement is good news for Sears customers, but what about people who buy their stoves somewhere else?

More here from The New York Times.

Polaris Industries recalls ATVs

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: Select "Outlaw IRS" ATVs, Model Year 2006-2008

Units: About 11,300

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

Hazard: A retention bolt can come loose causing the rear wheels to lock up, which poses a risk of serious injury to the rider.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 11 reports of loss of control, including one rider who suffered a strained leg muscle.

Description: The recall involves select 2006-2008 Polaris “Outlaw” ATVs with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). The affected models are:

Model
2006 OUTLAW 500 “IRS”
2007 OUTLAW 500 “IRS”
2007 OUTLAW 525 “IRS”
2008 OUTLAW 525 “IRS”

The model name is printed on decals located on either side of the fuel tank.

Sold at: Polaris dealers nationwide from January 2006 through January 2008 for between $6,900 and $7,400.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled ATVs immediately, and contact any Polaris ATV dealer to schedule a free repair. Polaris has notified registered consumers directly about this recall.

Consumer Contact: For further information, contact Polaris toll-free at (888) 704-5290 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the company's Web site at www.polarisindustries.com

Organic pet food sales grow after pet deaths

The New York Times has a piece about the steady growth in this industry:

Pet Promise pledges its foods are made from “source-verified, natural ingredients.” Although a 25-pound bag of its dog food costs around $43, compared with around $24 for a 50-pound bag of the conventional stuff, sales rocketed by 300 percent at the height of the recall, says its co-founder, Dave Carter. But the company didn’t sustain those supercharged growth levels; for all of 2007, Pet Promise had high double-digit growth, which was in line with annual growth trends in previous years. After all, the natural and organic pet-food category has expanded at a steady clip for a while.... Yet the category remains a very thin slice of the pet-food business — probably less than 1 percent. Pet-food sales in grocery and mass-merchandise stores, which sell a lot of regular pet food, took a hit in the second quarter of 2007, according the Nielsen Company, but had rebounded by the end of the year.

Nissan Murano scores high in SUV crash tests

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has picked the 2009 Nissan Murano as their top safety pick in crash-testing of SUVs. (Video available at that link as well.)

Icy Hot - a little too hot

The Food and Drug Administration announced today that Chattem, Inc., of Chattanooga, Tenn., is recalling several varieties of its Icy Hot Heat Therapy Air-Activated Heat patches "because it has received some consumer reports of first, second and third degree burns as well as skin irritation resulting from consumer use or possible misuse of these products."

Read more here at ABC News.