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With a sharp increase in the number of carbon-monoxide-related deaths among Gulf Coast residents stemming from the unsafe use of outdoor portable generators in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a major new initiative urging hurricane victims to avoid a potentially fatal situation by never using these generators indoors. Unofficial estimates indicate at least 11 deaths and numerous injuries have been attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning stemming from portable generators used in areas with power outages. The CPSC is coordinating with the CDC and other health and safety organizations, as well as our nation's largest home improvement and hardware retailers, to provide life-saving safety warnings to Gulf Coast residents – many of whom are expected to be first-time users of generators. "As federal, state and local officials continue their important relief mission in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, thousands of families are fortunately beginning the process of returning to their homes," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "So we're reminding all Gulf Coast residents that some of the biggest dangers lie in the aftermath of the hurricane, the greatest of which can be carbon monoxide poisoning." Stratton provides hurricane survivors with these important life-saving tips:
Wet Carpets and Furniture Are Dangerous to Your Health
Avoid Electrical and Gas Hazards
Dangers to Children
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning residents of the Gulf Coast hit by Hurricane Katrina not to let disaster strike a second time. Deadly dangers exist in and around homes affected by the hurricane. The most serious hazard involves portable generators, which will be used in areas where the electricity has been knocked out by hurricane-force winds and flooding. CPSC strongly warns consumers to never use a generator indoors – including garages, basements, crawlspaces and sheds – even with ventilation. Exhaust fumes contain extremely high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), which can rapidly become deadly if inhaled. Last year, numerous deaths were reported throughout the Southeast due to CO poisoning while using generators in the aftermath of the four hurricanes that hit the region. Consumers should only use a portable generator outdoors in a dry area away from doors, windows and vents that can allow CO to come indoors. Wait for the rain to pass before using a generator, as consumer-grade generators are not weatherproof and can pose the risk of electrocution and shock when used in wet conditions. Additional life-saving safety tips from CPSC include the following:
With this year's back-to-school season in full swing, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging parents, teachers and school administrators to help prevent unnecessary injuries this fall by conducting a series of safety checks to identify hidden hazards in and around schools. CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton says that taking a few, simple steps, such as conducting safety checks on school playgrounds, athletic fields and inside the classroom can help prevent children from serious injuries during the school year. Parents should also make sure that children riding bicycles or scooters to and from school always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety gear. "Parents, teachers and school administrators each play a major role in promoting back-to-school safety," says Stratton. "Conducting school safety checks for hidden hazards will go a long way toward keeping kids in the classroom and out of the emergency room." The CPSC is providing the following back-to-school safety tips to help prevent injuries this fall: Getting to School Safely
Bicycle Helmets
Safety on Playgrounds and Athletic Fields
Playgrounds
Soccer Goals
Safety Within Schools
Art Supplies
In advance of Hurricane Dennis hitting the Gulf Coast, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning residents in its path of the deadly dangers that can exist after a natural disaster sweeps through and knocks out power and causes flooding. The most serious hazard involves portable generators, which are often used to deal with the loss of electricity. Deaths tragically and frequently occur after a storm has passed, when homeowners or business owners set up a generator indoors or too close to a home or building. CPSC strongly warns consumers to never use a generator indoors – including garages, basements, crawlspaces and sheds – even with ventilation. Exhaust fumes contain extremely high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), which can rapidly become deadly if inhaled. Last year, numerous deaths were reported throughout the Southeast due to CO poisoning while using generators in the aftermath of the four hurricanes that hit the region. Consumers should only use a portable generator outdoors in a dry area away from doors, windows and vents that can allow CO to come indoors. Wait for the rain to pass before using a generator, as consumer-grade generators are not weatherproof and can pose the risk of electrocution and shock when used in wet conditions. Additional life-saving safety tips from CPSC include:
(7-08-05)
A new study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) staff finds nearly 70 percent of all fireworks-related injuries take place around the 4th of July holiday. The study also found that more than 50 percent of those injuries occur to children and teenagers. The top three injury-causing fireworks are firecrackers, sparklers and rockets. Those fireworks account for nearly half of all injuries. To help reduce the number of fireworks-related injuries this summer, CPSC and federal law enforcement agencies are encouraging consumers to keep fireworks out of the hands of children, to safely use legal fireworks and never buy or use illegal fireworks. CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton says parents often don't realize that sparklers, for instance, burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. "The best way parents can keep their children safe this 4th of July is never allow young children to ignite or handle fireworks of any kind," Stratton says. Children most often suffer burns, lacerations and eye injuries. CPSC's staff estimates that there were 9,600 emergency-room-treated injuries associated with fireworks in 2004. Sixty-six hundred of the injuries occurred in a single month (June 19 to July 19, 2004). In addition to encouraging the safe use of legal consumer fireworks, the federal government is committed to stopping the manufacture and sale of illegal fireworks, which could prove to be deadly if used by consumers. CPSC is working to do its part to keep American families safe by enforcing fireworks regulations and by prosecuting dealers and distributors who manufacture and sell illegal explosives. As a part of its fireworks enforcement program, CPSC actively works with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Through undercover buys, online purchases, inspections and investigations, CPSC and ATF are tracking down and closing illegal roadside stands, warehouses and retail stores that sell professional-grade explosives to consumers, and homes that serve as havens for the manufacture of dangerous fireworks devices. CPSC also works with the Department of Homeland Security's Bureau of Customs & Border Protection to prevent millions of hazardous and illegal fireworks from entering U.S. ports and reaching consumers. For example, since 1988, CPSC and the Bureau of Customs & Border Protection have seized or detained nearly 460 million hazardous fireworks at docks across the country. The investigative work conducted by CPSC and ATF has led to dozens of successful prosecutions by the Justice Department's Office of Consumer Litigation and U.S. Attorney's offices across the country. CPSC recommends following these fireworks safety tips:
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced a provisional settlement with a toy and art materials manufacturer for failing to report important product safety information to the Commission. The settlement will impose a $300,000 penalty against Rose Art Industries Inc., of Livingston, N.J., for failing to inform the government in a timely manner about a defect in soap making kits that led to injuries to young children. Between August 1997 and December 2001, Rose Art made and sold about 125,000 Glamour Gear Soap Making Kits nationwide. The kits, which are intended for children 8 years of age and older, include bars of soap, molds and a plastic cup to melt soap chunks. A defect in the plastic cup, which is used to heat the soap in a microwave, can cause it to deform or develop a hole in the bottom and pose a serious burn hazard to children. Between January 1998 and January 2002, Rose Art received 10 reports of children who were burned by hot soap while removing the plastic cup from the microwave. The majority of the children suffered second- and third-degree burns. The firm did not inform CPSC about the defect, injuries and the resulting civil litigation against the company until February 2002. In March 2002, CPSC and Rose Art announced a recall of the soap kits. Consumers can log on to www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml02/02121.html for information about receiving a refund. According to federal law, manufacturers, distributors and retailers are required to report to CPSC immediately (within 24 hours) after obtaining information that reasonably supports the conclusion that a product contains a defect that could create a substantial risk of injury to the public, presents an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death or violates a federal safety standard. In agreeing to settle the matter, Rose Art Industries denies that the soap kits were defective and that it violated the reporting requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act. (6-27-05)
A new year-long study released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) finds there were an estimated 10,000 emergency room injuries involving powered scooters from July 2003 through June 2004, the first year for which there is reliable data. According to the CPSC staff report, less than half of all victims were wearing helmets at the time of the incident, and few were wearing other safety gear such as knee and elbow pads. Approximately two-thirds of all injuries occurred in children under 15 years old. The study was undertaken to get a more accurate picture of injuries as powered scooters have risen in popularity. CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton says that because seven out of 10 incidents were behavior- or environment-related, following local laws and CPSC safety guidelines can play a strong role in protecting children. "The good news is that parents can help significantly reduce deaths and injuries to children by taking simple safety precautions such as making sure their kids wear helmets, ride only on smooth surfaces and avoid riding at night," says Chairman Stratton. Other findings by CPSC staff study include:
CPSC has reports of 49 deaths attributed to powered scooters from October 1998 through November 2004. Twenty-nine of the deaths were the result of an accident with a motor vehicle. These scooters can be powered by either electric or gasoline engines. Both types of scooters usually have two wheels, a platform to stand on and handlebars. The scooters sometimes have detachable seats. CPSC recommends the following safety guidelines to help prevent scooter deaths and injuries:
(6-14-05)
With Memorial Day coming and many people getting ready for summer fun at the pool, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is reminding parents and caregivers of several key steps that will help protect children from drowning hazards in pools and spas. CPSC reports there are about 250 drowning deaths of children under 5 each year in swimming pools, and an estimated 2,300 children were treated in hospital emergency rooms for pool submersion injuries in 2004 – mostly in residential pools. CPSC recommends layers of protection including barriers, such as a fence with self-closing, self-latching gates, completely surrounding your pool to prevent access. If the house forms a side of the barrier, use alarms on doors leading to the pool area or a power safety cover. Additional layers to consider include pool alarms and manual safety covers. It is important to always be prepared in case of an emergency by having rescue equipment and a phone near the pool, and learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A common scenario is that young children leave the house without a parent or caregiver realizing it. If a child is missing, look in the pool first. "Close supervision of young children is crucial in preventing drowning deaths," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Since no one layer of protection is foolproof, parents must be constantly vigilant to protect their children." CPSC also is reminding parents and caregivers to be aware of the hidden danger of drain entrapments. Since 1990, CPSC has reports of 130 people who became entrapped on pool and spa drains or whose hair became entangled in the drain cover, resulting in 27 deaths. The suction from a pool drain can be so powerful that it can hold an adult under water, but most entrapment incidents involve children. CPSC recommends that before you use your pool or spa this year, have a professional inspect it for entrapment hazards. This inspection should check to make sure appropriate drain covers are in place, and that missing or broken drain covers are replaced, as they are a major reason many entrapment incidents occur. Pool and spa owners can consider installing a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS), which detects when a drain is blocked and automatically shuts off the pool pump or interrupts the water circulation to prevent an entrapment. CPSC recently updated its Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards: Making Pools and Spas Safer, which details specific information for pool owners and professionals to reduce entrapment dangers. CPSC has a new Swimming Pool Safety Alert that provides additional swimming pool and entrapment safety information. Additionally, CPSC offers more publications consumers can use to help prevent child drowning: Safety Barrier Guidelines for Pools and How to Plan for the Unexpected. Copies of all these free publications can be obtained by going to CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov, by calling CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or by writing to "Pool Safety," U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C., 20207. (5-19-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that Nautilus Inc., of Vancouver, Wash., has agreed to pay a $950,000 civil penalty. The penalty, which has been provisionally accepted by the Commission, settles allegations that the company failed to give CPSC timely reports on serious injuries and safety defects with nearly 800,000 Bowflex fitness machines. Under federal law, manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers must immediately report information about potentially hazardous products to the Commission. "The recent penalties levied by CPSC send a strong message that failing to report potential hazards is illegal," states CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Companies need to understand that the quicker they report product safety problems to CPSC, the quicker we can take action together and protect consumers from injuries."
Backboard Bench Hazard In January 2004, after the company had finally reported in full, CPSC and Nautilus announced the recall of Power Pro machines.
Seat Pin Hazard In November 2004, after the company had finally reported in full, CPSC and Nautilus announced a new recall of Power Pro and Ultimate fitness machines.
Incline Support Bracket Hazard In November 2004, CPSC and Nautilus announced a recall of the Power Pro fitness machines. After its first recall with CPSC last year, Nautilus worked with CPSC to review its entire product line and cooperatively determined the need for corrective measures. That review resulted in two additional recalls last fall. (4-12-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reminds Americans to change their smoke alarm batteries when changing their clocks for Daylight-Saving Time this Sunday, April 3. While about 90 percent of U.S. households have smoke alarms installed, a CPSC survey estimated millions of those households, about 20 percent, do not have any working alarms. "A working smoke alarm can save lives. It's that simple and that important," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. Each year, an estimated 2,850 people die in residential fires, 16,000 people are injured and more than 353,500 residential fires are reported to fire departments. CPSC recommends changing smoke alarm batteries at least once a year and testing each smoke alarm every month to make sure it is working properly. Long-life smoke alarms with 10-year batteries have been available to consumers since 1995. These long-life alarms also should be tested monthly. At least one smoke alarm should be placed on every level of the home. The most important location is near the bedrooms to provide an early warning to all sleeping occupants. A smoke alarm should also be placed inside every bedroom. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly install a smoke alarm. The CPSC also urges families to plan escape routes, identify a family meeting place safely outside the home and practice leaving their homes in the event of a fire. It is important to be aware of and remove any obstacles that may prevent a quick and safe evacuation, such as blocked exits or jammed or barred windows. "A little bit of planning goes a long way," says Stratton. "Every family should develop a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year with the entire household." Stratton also warns that children may not wake up from the sound of a smoke alarm. "Parents should hold a fire drill during the night so they can assess their children's ability to awaken and respond appropriately," he says. "If children, or any family member, cannot awaken to or hear the smoke alarm, the escape plan should be adjusted to help all family members get out safely." In addition to working smoke alarms, the CPSC recommends that every home have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm near every sleeping area. Consumers also need to regularly test and replace batteries in CO alarms. (4-1-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a provisional settlement with one of the nation's largest children's product manufacturers for the largest civil penalty levied in CPSC history. CPSC has provisionally imposed a $4 million penalty against Graco Children's Products Inc., of Exton, Pa., for failing to inform the government in a timely manner about more than 12 million products that posed a danger to young children nationwide. CPSC and Graco also are announcing the recall today of about 1.2 million toddler beds, sold between February 1994 and March 2001, because a child's arm or leg can become entrapped in the guard rails or footboard. The company's failure to report the toddler beds is one of the violations leading to today's penalty. "CPSC is at the forefront of protecting children from products that can cause serious injuries," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Today's announcement demonstrates our commitment to protecting American families by holding companies accountable for keeping safety information from us." Graco, which acquired the Century brand name in 1998, is now owned by Newell Rubbermaid Inc. From 1991 through 2002, Graco and Century failed to report defects in juvenile products that the Commission says could create substantial product hazards or unreasonable risks of injury or death to young children. According to the CPSC, the company failed to report hundreds of incidents and injuries involving 16 different products. The products, all used by young children, include infant carriers, high chairs, infant swings, strollers and toddler beds. The injuries range from contusions and fractures to strangulation (including some fatalities). The CPSC and Graco are also finalizing corrective action plans for two additional products that were manufactured between 1994 and 2001 and are addressed by today's penalty. "We want companies to take their reporting responsibilities very seriously," Stratton says. "The action taken by Newell Rubbermaid to identify these critical safety failures by companies they purchased and take the necessary measures to improve product safety is a positive step that other companies should follow."
Graco High Chair
About 78,000 children under 5 years old visited U.S. hospital emergency rooms due to unintentional poisonings in 2003 – about one every seven minutes, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports. Most of these poisonings included products commonly found in the home. The data was released by CPSC, the National Poison Prevention Week Council and the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) at a news conference to kick off National Poison Prevention Week. CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton says that more than nine of every 10 suspected poison exposures occur at home with readily-available household products. About 30 children die from poisonings each year, down from 450 in the 1960s. "While our nation has made great progress in reducing poison-related fatalities, we must build on our commitment to protect children from unintentional poisonings," says Stratton. Parents can do their part, he notes, by keeping harmful products and medicines out of children's reach, storing items in their original containers and properly using child-resistant packaging. According to AAPCC, poison centers nationwide received more than one million calls about poison exposures involving children 5 years and younger in 2003. Among the potentially toxic household products involved with calls to the poison centers were the following:
Rose Ann Soloway, chair of the Poison Prevention Week Council, notes that when repackaged at home in non-child-resistant containers, medicines and potentially hazardous household products become even more accessible and dangerous for young children. "Grandparents who keep their prescription drugs in non-child-resistant pill boxes should be especially aware of this risk," says Soloway. "Child-resistant packaging doesn't work if it's not used properly." Many poisoning incidents occur while the products are in use and a parent or caregiver steps away or is distracted for a moment. Children can get hold of a product and swallow it during the short time it takes to answer a phone call or doorbell. "The alarming number of poison center calls and emergency department visits proves that children act fast, and so do poisons," says Kathy Wruk, president of AAPCC. "Parents must act fast as well. If your child swallows or handles a potentially dangerous product, immediately call the poison center hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Your call will be answered by experts at your local poison center." To get a free packet of poison prevention publications, write to "Poison Prevention Packet," CPSC, Washington, D.C. 20207, or visit www.poisonprevention.org. For additional information about poison prevention and poison centers, visit www.1-800-222-1222.info. (3-15-05)
In 2002, more than 1.45 million Americans 65 years and older went to hospital emergency rooms with consumer product-related injuries. According to a new study titled "Special Report: Emergency Room Injuries Adults 65 and Older," consumers in that age group are increasingly at risk for product-related injuries in or around the home, especially falls. The report is being announced today to coincide with the kickoff of a major education campaign by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Safety Council (NSC). The special report finds people 75 years and older especially vulnerable. From 1991 to 2002, the number of people 75 and older treated in a U.S. hospital emergency room for a product-related injury jumped 73 percent. During the same time frame, their population grew just 27 percent. Those 75 years and older are twice as likely as adults 65 to 74 to have emergency-room-treated injuries from consumer products. "These are preventable injuries," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever. We want them to enjoy themselves free from debilitating injury." CPSC estimates product-related injuries and deaths involving those 65 and older cost the United States over $100 billion every year. "Falls and injuries among the elderly are issues of extreme importance to the National Safety Council," says Alan C. McMillan, NSC President and CEO. "According to our 2003 data, more than 15,000 Americans 65 and older died as a result of unintentional injuries in the home. We need to take steps now in order to address this urgent national issue." Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury at home among Americans 65 and older. Injuries include falling and tripping on stairs, in bathtubs, off ladders and step stools, over garden hoses, dog leashes and household appliance cords. Among more active older consumers, the report cites sports-related deaths and injuries. CPSC has reports of 100 drowning deaths in one year among those 65 and older, a disproportionate share. Fires are also a hazard. Cooking fires and clothing ignition while cooking are a major hazard for older people. Those 75 and older are one of the fastest-growing segments of the U.S. population, and older consumers are also increasingly involved in exercise and sports. Below are CPSC's safety tips to help reduce deaths and injuries to older consumers from falls. CPSC has also prepared safety tips in checklist and poster formats. The advice is simple, straightforward and can save a life:
In addition to the injury report, CPSC is launching a major education campaign to warn older Americans of their risks. Through its Neighborhood Safety Network, CPSC is coordinating with the National Safety Council to reach older Americans through NSC chapters, senior centers and state agencies, urging consumers to take extra precautions. CPSC and NSC signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding to work together to reduce product-related injuries among older consumers and cooperate on other important issues. Throughout the year, CPSC staff will work with state organizations that promote safety for older consumers and inform them about hazards that pose a risk of injury. Staff will host 30 seminars nationwide, distribute CPSC safety publications and encourage older consumers to visit CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov to learn about hazards in and around the home. (2-14-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced a new enforcement policy to reduce the potential for health risks from lead in children's metal jewelry. The new policy gives manufacturers, importers and retailers clear guidance on steps they should take to minimize the risk for children. The CPSC is also specifying the laboratory test procedures it will use to analyze lead content. The new policy explains how the CPSC staff will test for lead in children's jewelry and identifies the lead levels that will trigger further attention. CPSC staff will first conduct a screening test to determine the lead content of each type of component in a piece of jewelry. For example, a necklace may consist of a chain, a clasp, a pendant and one or more types of beads. If the lead content of each component is less than or equal to 600 parts per million (ppm), the staff will not pursue a recall or other corrective action. If the lead content of any component exceeds 600 ppm, Commission staff will then conduct further testing using the acid extraction method. If the acid extraction test yields an amount of accessible lead less than or equal to 175 micrograms (ug), no corrective action will be sought. Pieces of metal jewelry with accessible lead greater than 175 ug could result in elevated blood lead levels in children. In these instances, CPSC staff will decide what corrective action may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis. Staff will consider the age of the children who are most likely to wear the jewelry, the level of accessible lead, the size and shape of the jewelry components, the probable routes of exposure and other factors. Commission staff recommends that firms intending to sell children's jewelry in the United States keep lead levels as low as possible and test their own products following our guidelines to ensure that they contain no more than 600 ppm lead. "We do not want children's jewelry to have accessible lead that could cause elevated blood lead levels," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "We urge manufacturers to reduce the lead content of their products to the greatest extent possible below the 600 ppm benchmark." While deteriorating lead paint in homes is the leading cause of lead poisoning in children, lead exposures from other sources adds to the overall risk. The scientific community generally recognizes a blood lead level of 10 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dl) of blood as a level of concern and recommends various lead poisoning prevention activities. To prevent young children from exceeding the 10 ug/dl blood lead level, CPSC seeks to limit exposure to lead from all consumer products, including children's metal jewelry. In 2004, CPSC announced recalls of more than 150 million pieces of toy jewelry sold in vending machines and through other outlets. The Commission is aware of several cases in which children developed high blood lead levels after swallowing or repeatedly sucking on jewelry items. Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation. (2-3-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that it has provisionally accepted a settlement that imposes CPSC's first civil penalty for reporting violations involving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn., has agreed to pay a $950,000 penalty to settle allegations that the ATV manufacturer failed to timely inform CPSC of serious defects and hazards in certain models of the company's ATVs. CPSC conducted two investigations into the timeliness of Polaris's reporting. In the first matter, Polaris manufactured and sold 13,600 Scrambler, Sport and Xplorer 400 model ATVs. The throttles on these ATVs can stick and prevent the machines from slowing down or stopping, leading to loss of control and crashes. Between December 1998 and May 2000, Polaris learned of 88 reports of throttles sticking due to defects in the throttle control, including 19 crashes or other accidents. The company also had seven reports of injuries, including a dislocated hip, a broken shoulder, torn back muscles and scrapes and bruises. Prior to reporting these incidents to CPSC, the company allegedly made three engineering changes to the ATVs in an attempt to prevent the throttles from sticking. Polaris reported to CPSC in May 2000 and announced a recall in August 2000. In the second matter, Polaris manufactured and sold 55,500 Xpedition, Trail Boss and Magnum 325 model ATVs. The oil lines on these ATVs blew off, disconnected or loosened, resulting in the spraying of hot pressurized oil. This presented the risk of fires, burns, other injuries and death. Between March 1999 and February 2001, Polaris received nearly 1,450 reports of oil line blow-offs, disconnections and leaks resulting from the oil line defect. In 61 reports, the discharging oil caused smoke, fire, melting and accidents, and 42 of those 61 reports involved ATV fires or the surrounding area catching fire. Polaris received 18 reports of injuries, including second- and third-degree burns, scarring, bruises and scrapes. Between February 2000 and January 2001, Polaris allegedly did extensive analyses and made four engineering changes to the defective ATVs without informing CPSC; and from May 2000 to January 2001, the company sent five alerts to its dealers about the oil line defects without telling the government. Polaris finally reported to CPSC in February 2001, a little more than a month after CPSC asked the company to report. Polaris announced a recall of the ATVs in April 2001. Federal law requires manufacturers, retailers and distributors to report to CPSC immediately (within 24 hours) after obtaining information reasonably supporting the conclusion that a product contains a defect that could create a substantial risk of injury to the public, presents an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death or violates a federal safety standard. Although it agreed to pay a civil penalty, Polaris denies CPSC's allegations and denies that it violated the law. (1-13-05)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted unanimously (2 to 0) on Tuesday to issue a proposed safety standard to reduce deaths and injuries from fires involving mattresses. The proposed standard for mattresses addresses fires ignited by an open flame. CPSC also voted to issue an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to develop a separate safety standard to address bedclothes (such as blankets, comforters and pillows) flammability. "This is a significant step toward reducing deaths and injuries from mattress fires," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "This is a top priority at CPSC. Voting for this proposed mattress standard means we are pretty far down the road toward a final standard." CPSC Commissioner Thomas Moore added, "This proposed standard will lead to mattresses that are a dramatic improvement, in terms of fire resistance and lives saved, over most mattresses currently on the market." The proposed mattress standard will be published in the Federal Register, requesting public comment for a period of 75 days. An opportunity for oral testimony will also be scheduled. From 1995 through 1999, mattresses and bedding were the first items to ignite in an estimated 19,400 residential fires each year. These fires resulted in an estimated 440 deaths, 2,230 injuries and $273.9 million property losses annually. CPSC staff estimates that most of these deaths and injuries would be addressed by the proposed standard. Fires involving mattresses of traditional constructions can reach flashover (when the entire contents of the room ignite) in less than five minutes. The proposed mattress standard would limit the size of the fire and prevent or delay the time to flashover. This would allow people more time to discover and escape the fire, reducing deaths and injuries. Staff believes that materials are commercially available that can be used to produce comfortable, practical and reasonably priced mattresses with significantly improved fire performance. The CPSC rulemaking proceeding to set flammability standards for bedclothes will begin with a notice in the Federal Register requesting public comments on the fire risks and possible approaches to reducing them. Bedclothes are the first item to ignite in about 80 percent of mattress and bedding fires and can contribute substantially to the risks associated with mattress/bedding fires. (12-22-04)
Name of product: 3-way compact fluorescent light bulbs Units: About 158,000 Manufacturer/Distributor: Technical Consumer Products Inc., of Aurora, Ohio Manufactured in: China Hazard: The bulbs can overheat and spark, posing a burn hazard to consumers. Incidents/Injuries: Technical Consumer Products has received 16 reports of overheating bulbs. No injuries have been reported. Description: The recalled 32-watt, 3-way (40-75-150 watt output) compact fluorescent bulbs were sold under the brand names Commercial Electric (Home Depot) and DuraBright (Orchard Supply Hardware). The bulbs are about 7 inches high and have a white, spiral fluorescent tube attached to a white plastic base. The following item numbers, which can be found on the back of the packaging and the base of the bulb, are included in the recall: 283-924, 575-717 and 69032. Sold at: Home Depot and Orchard Supply Hardware nationwide from April 2004 through November 2004 for about $10 (single pack) or $19 (double pack). Remedy: Consumers should stop using the bulbs immediately and contact Technical Consumer Products for a free replacement or gift card. Consumer Contact: Call Technical Consumer Products at (800) 397-2647 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. (12-08-04)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reminds consumers to follow safety precautions when purchasing and using electric or fuel-fired heaters and fireplaces. "Most of the deaths and injuries from heaters and fireplaces happen in the winter months," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Every home needs working smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide alarm." In a recent year, there were about 10,900 residential fires and about 190 deaths associated with portable or fixed space heaters. There were 15,500 fires and 40 deaths associated with fireplaces and chimneys. In addition, an average of about 85 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by heating systems, ranges/ovens and water heaters. Heaters can cause fires if they are placed too close to flammable materials such as drapes, furniture or bedding. Fireplaces can cause fires if the chimney is cracked, blocked or coated with creosote, or if sparks and embers can reach flammable materials. Fuel-burning appliances can cause carbon monoxide poisoning if they are improperly installed, poorly maintained, have compromised venting systems or are misused. Heater Safety Tips
Fireplace Safety Tips
Consumers who would like more information can view a free CPSC booklet, "What You Should Know about Space Heaters," or receive it by sending a postcard to "Space Heater Booklet," CPSC, Washington, DC 20207. (12-10-04)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is issuing safety tips for holiday decorations. Holiday decorations, like candles, lights and Christmas trees, add a joyous and festive mood to the holiday season. But when these decorations are not used properly, they can cause fires, injuries and death. Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for falls, cuts, shocks and burns due to incidents involving faulty holiday lights, dried-out Christmas trees and other holiday decorations. To prevent these injuries, CPSC monitors holiday lights and other decorations sold at stores and on the Internet. CPSC works with the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection to identify and detain unsafe holiday light sets posing fire risks from being distributed in the United States. Christmas trees are involved in about 300 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 30 injuries and an average of about $10 million in property damage and loss. In addition, there are more than 13,000 candle-related fires each year, which result in 140 deaths and $205 million in property loss. "The flickering light of candles can add beauty and tradition to the holidays," says CPSC Chairman Stratton. "However, when left unattended or within a child's reach, burning candles can turn your celebration into tragedy. Following a few simple safety tips can help prevent holiday decoration-related fires." CPSC suggests following these tips to make your holiday a safe one. Trees:
Lights:
Candles and Other Decorations:
Fireplaces:
For more, see the CPSC brochure (http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/611.html) with holiday decorating and toy safety tips. (12-13-04)
The staff of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) briefed CPSC Commissioners on possible fire safety standards to reduce deaths and injuries from fires involving mattresses and bedclothes (blankets, comforters and pillows). The staff's draft proposed standard for mattresses addresses fires ignited by an open flame. The CPSC staff also briefed commissioners on a draft advance notice of proposed rulemaking to develop a separate safety standard for bedclothes flammability. "Reducing fire deaths is one of our top priorities," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "I want the standard for mattress flammability to move as quickly as the process permits." If the commissioners vote to proceed with the notice of proposed rulemaking, the proposed mattress standard would be published in the Federal Register, requesting public comment for a period of 75 days. An opportunity for oral testimony will also be scheduled. From 1995 through 1999, mattresses and bedding were the first items to ignite in an estimated 19,400 residential fires each year. These fires resulted in an estimated 440 deaths, 2,230 injuries and $273.9 million property loss annually. CPSC staff estimates that most of these deaths and injuries would be addressed by the draft proposed standard. Fires involving mattresses of traditional constructions can reach flashover (when the entire contents of the room ignite) in less than five minutes. The draft proposed mattress standard would limit the size of the fire and prevent or delay the time to flashover. This will allow people more time to discover and escape the fire, reducing deaths and injuries. CPSC staff indicate that materials are commercially available that can be used to produce comfortable, practical and reasonably priced mattresses with significantly improved fire performance. In addition, the staff recommends that commissioners begin rulemaking proceedings to set flammability standards for bedclothes. Bedclothes are the first item to ignite in about 80 percent of mattress/bedding fires. (12-09-04)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted unanimously (2-0) to start development of a mandatory safety standard for cigarette lighters. The mandatory standard could be based on the current voluntary "Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Lighters" (ASTM F-400) to prevent mechanical malfunction of lighters. "Reducing fire deaths is one of our top priorities," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "A mandatory standard for cigarette lighters – along with standards for the flammability of mattresses and upholstered furniture – would help reduce fires, deaths and injuries." There are approximately one billion cigarette lighters sold in the United States annually. About 400 million of those are imported from China. From 1997 through 2002, CPSC estimated that 3,015 people went to hospital emergency rooms for injuries resulting from malfunctioning lighters. Most of these injuries involved thermal burns to the face, hands and fingers. For the same time period, CPSC received 256 incident reports related to cigarette lighter malfunctions and failures; 65 percent of these cigarette lighter failures resulted in fires, leading to three deaths and six serious injuries. The voluntary standard for lighters addresses the risk of fire, death and injury associated with mechanical malfunction of lighters. A mandatory standard would apply to imported as well as domestically manufactured products. "Fires are a leading cause of consumer product related deaths," says Chairman Stratton. "By developing fire safety standards for mattresses, upholstered furniture and cigarette lighters, CPSC can help save many lives while maintaining reasonable cost to consumers and manufacturers." CPSC Commissioner Thomas Moore said he voted to grant the petition because it would allow additional fact-finding about deaths and injuries and about industry compliance, which would help determine whether federal regulation is warranted in this area. CPSC already has a mandatory standard for child-resistant cigarette lighters, which addresses the hazard of children under 5 years of age starting fires with lighters. That standard for child-resistance applies to imported as well as domestically manufactured disposable and novelty lighters. Fire deaths associated with children playing with lighters dropped dramatically since the mandatory standard for child-resistance became effective in July 1994 – from 230 in 1994 to 130 in 1998. Children under age 5 accounted for 170 of the deaths in 1994 and 40 of the deaths in 1998. In 1994, there were 10,400 residential fires associated with children playing with lighters. By 1998, that number declined to 5,500 fires. Even lighters with child-resistant mechanisms are not child-proof, so all lighters should always be kept out of the reach of children. (12-01-04)
"Gift buyers should be on the lookout for recently recalled toys and children's products this holiday season," says U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Chairman Hal Stratton. Stratton was joined by Dr. Gary Smith, chairperson of the American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) Committee on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention; and Charlene Zettel, director of California's Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) at CPSC's annual Holiday Toy Safety Press conference in Washington, D.C. "Recalled products pose potentially serious safety threats to youngsters," Stratton says. CPSC has reports of 11 toy-related deaths involving children under age 15 that occurred in 2003. Most of these deaths occurred when a child choked on or aspirated a toy. The toys involved in these incidents were small balls, balloons, a game piece and a toy bead. Also, in 2003, an estimated 155,400 children were treated for toy-related injuries in U.S. hospital emergency rooms, down nearly 23 percent since 2001. To further reduce deaths and injuries, and to quickly get the word out about consumer safety issues, Stratton today announced the launch of the Neighborhood Safety Network (NSN). NSN is a Web-based grassroots initiative aimed at delivering lifesaving information to hard-to-reach consumers. "The Neighborhood Safety Network will get important safety information to older Americans, urban and rural low-income families, new parents and minority groups," says Stratton. The AAP is supporting the renewed federal push to increase recall effectiveness. "As a longtime partner of the CPSC on toy safety issues, the AAP has been working with the agency on the NSN project since the recall of children's lead jewelry last summer," says Dr. Smith. "Pediatricians are using CPSC safety posters in their offices to ensure that their patients receive this information." Another important component of the Neighborhood Safety Network is close cooperation with state consumer safety departments across the nation. "We welcome CPSC's effort to reach vulnerable populations with safety information, because increased awareness can help reduce deaths and injuries," says Zettel. Other partners in the Neighborhood Safety Network include the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Indian Health Service, National SAFE KIDS Coalition, Meals on Wheels and Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Community groups and individual consumers can download the new holiday safety poster and sign up to receive all NSN safety and recall information at the CPSC Web site at www.cpsc.gov, or by calling CPSC's Hotline toll-free at (800) 638-2772. Consumers also should check that their gift lists do not include any of the recalled toys or children's products on CPSC's checklist. Checklist of Recalled Toys and Children's Products Bumble Bee Toys (398,000) distributed by Graco Children's Products. Graco received 26 reports of the antennae breaking off the bumble bee toys, including five reports of children who started to choke on the broken antennae. One child's throat was scratched when the child's mother removed the broken antenna from the child's mouth. Call Graco at (800) 258-3213 to receive a free replacement toy. Nerf Big Play Football (294,000) distributed by Hasbro. The football contains a hard plastic interior frame that can pose a risk of facial cuts if a child is hit during play. There have been nine reports of facial injuries, including eight requiring stitches or medical attention. Call Hasbro at (866) 637-3244 or visit the firm's Web site at www.nerf.com to receive a replacement NERF product of equal value. Carter's Children's Mirror Books (225,000) distributed by Kids II Inc. The mirror in the books can crack or break, posing a laceration hazard to young children. Kids II has received 26 reports of the mirror cracking or breaking, including four reports of cuts and one report of a pinched finger. Call Kids II at (877) 325-7056 or visit the firm's Web site at www.kidsii.com for instructions on returning the mirror for a refund. Radio-Control Toy Trucks (287,000) distributed by Nikko America Inc. A problem with the circuit board causes the toy truck to overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard. No injuries have been reported. Call Nikko America at (866) 232-6013 for instructions on returning the product for a free circuit board replacement. Ride-On Toys (70,000) distributed by Tek Nek Toys International. The screw and nut assembly attaching the steering wheel can come loose, posing a choking and aspiration hazard to young children. Tek Nek Toys has received six reports of the screw and nut coming loose, including the death of an 18-month-old boy who aspirated a screw. Call Tek Nek Toys at (888) 661-0222 to receive free replacement parts. Batman Batmobile Toy Vehicle (314,000) distributed by Mattel Inc. The rear tail wings of the Batmobile are made of rigid plastic and come to a point, which poses a potential puncture or laceration hazard to young children. Mattel has received 14 reports of injuries consisting of scrapes, scratches, lacerations and punctures. Four of the injuries required medical treatment. Call Mattel at (888) 271-9891 to determine if the toy is among the recalled models and to order the free replacement wings if needed. Children's Athletic Shoes (441,000) distributed by Payless ShoeSource Inc. The metal eyelet lace holder at the top of the shoes can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. Payless ShoeSource has received one report of a child starting to choke on a detached eyelet from one of these shoes. No injuries have been reported. Call Payless at (800) 654-697 or visit the firm's Web site at www.payless.com for information on returning these shoes to a Payless ShoeSource store for a cash refund or exchange. "Rock 'N Roller" Baby Strollers (300,000) distributed by Dorel Juvenile Group USA. If the stop pins are bent or missing or the seat is not fully attached, the seat can partially detach from the frame during use and the infant occupant can be injured in a fall. There have been 77 reports of problems related to the stroller seats. Injuries included one child who fell and had a slight concussion and another child who cut his forehead and required stitches. Additionally, there were 46 reports of bumps and bruises. Call Dorel Juvenile Group at (800) 711-0402 to determine how to inspect the stroller for possible replacement. Metal Toy Jewelry Sold in Vending Machines (150 million pieces) by four toy jewelry importers (AA Global Industries Inc., Brand Imports, Cardinal Distributing Co. and L.M. Becker & Co. Inc.). Some of the toy jewelry contains dangerous levels of lead. CPSC has received one report of lead poisoning when a child swallowed a piece of toy jewelry containing lead that was previously recalled. No reports of injuries or illnesses have been received from products by these companies listed above. Consumers should throw away recalled jewelry. Toddler's Athletic Shoes (140,000) distributed by Reebok International. The I-3 logo-tag on the tongue of the shoe can be peeled off, posing a choking hazard to young children. Reebok has received a report of an 8-month-old child mouthing the logo-tag. The tag was removed without injury. Call Reebok at (800) 843-4444 or visit the firm's Web site at www.reebok.com to receive a refund. The following safety tips will help consumers choose appropriate toys:
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that Dynacraft BSC Inc., of San Rafael, Calif., has agreed to pay a $1,400,000 civil penalty to settle allegations that it violated federal reporting requirements. CPSC alleged that Dynacraft failed, on multiple occasions, to inform the government in a timely manner about a serious defect with their mountain bicycles. Between July 1999 and March 2001, Dynacraft imported nearly 250,000 mountain bicycles that were manufactured with two types of defective forks. The forks, which are part of the steering column, can break apart and separate from the front wheel, causing the rider to lose control and suffer serious injuries. Over 50,000 of these bicycles also were made with a defect that caused the pedals to come loose and fall off, resulting in a loss of control by the rider. In January 2000, Dynacraft reported to CPSC that a limited number of Vertical XL2 bicycles were involved in incidents where the fork broke and riders suffered chipped teeth, a sprained back or bumps and bruises to the head. Based on this information, CPSC and the firm recalled only 19,000 bicycles in February 2000. Yet, the firm knew of additional consumers who experienced the same problem with the bicycles, but these incidents were not reported to CPSC until July 2000. As a result, the February 2000 recall was expanded in September 2000 to include another 24,800 Vertical XL2 and Magna Electroshock model bicycles. Dynacraft reported problems with the Magna Electroshock model in August 2000, including 35 incidents and injuries (concussions, fractures and lost teeth). In March 2001, Dynacraft informed CPSC about 31 riders using the Next Shockzone model mountain bikes who were injured between March 2000 and March 2001. In addition to broken bones, cuts and bruises, one rider suffered a blood clot in the brain. The recall of 38,000 Next Shockzone bicycles in April 2001 also involved defective suspension forks. An additional 54,000 units were recalled in May 2001 after the company reported incidents and serious injuries involving the Magna Equator models, due to defects with the pedals. The largest and last recall took place in June 2002, when 132,000 Next Ultra Shock mountain bicycles were recalled due to defective Ballistic 105 forks. Dynacraft reported 21 injuries involving the Next Ultra Shock, including concussions, abrasions, chipped teeth and chest trauma. Federal law requires manufacturers, distributors and retailers to report to CPSC immediately (within 24 hours) after obtaining information that reasonably supports the conclusion that a product contains a defect that could create a substantial risk of injury to the public, presents an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death or violates a federal safety standard. In agreeing to settle the matter, Dynacraft BSC Inc. denies that it violated the reporting requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act. (11-19-04)
Ever wonder where you can go to find breaking news about product recalls? Parents, consumers and reporters need to look no further than www.Recalls.gov. A new feature on the Web site called "Recent Recalls" allows everyone to view recall announcements the very moment they are made public by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Food and Drug Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Coast Guard. The "Recent Recalls" link is the only source on the Internet for up-to-the-minute information on all government recalls. Nearly one million visitors have used Recalls.gov as a "one-stop-shop" for recall announcements from the Federal government. The site also contains safety warnings and information on how to report a problem with a consumer product, cosmetic, motor vehicle, boat, food product or environmental product. "With the holiday season in full swing, we are encouraged to see that many parents and consumers have logged on to www.Recalls.gov," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Before purchasing or giving any gift, particularly one intended for a child, visit the site and check to make sure the item does not pose a hazard." "By working with our federal, corporate and nonprofit partners, we hope to serve the public more efficiently, while saving countless lives and preventing injuries," Stratton says. (11-16-04)
A fitness equipment manufacturer and a treadmill importer have agreed to pay a civil penalty to settle allegations that both companies failed to report a serious safety hazard with their treadmills to the federal government. Johnson Health Tech Co. Ltd., of Taiwan, and Horizon Fitness Inc., of DeForest, Wis., have agreed to pay a total of $500,000 for allegedly violating federal reporting requirements by not informing the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in a timely manner about problems with the control panel on the treadmills. Between August 2000 and June 2001, Johnson Health Tech subcontracted to have motor control boards made for their treadmills, which were to be imported and distributed by Horizon Fitness. Between September 2000 and December 2001, Horizon imported over 10,000 treadmills that contained defective electronic control panels that caused the motor and walking belt to rapidly and unexpectedly accelerate. In some cases, the exercise machines also failed to stop when the safety key was activated. Johnson and Horizon received 180 reports of "runaway" treadmills and safety stop-key failures between January 2001 and January 2002. Fifteen of these reports alleged injuries, including sprain, strains, a torn rotator cuff, bruises and serious friction burns. The companies never reported these incidents to CPSC. Instead, the companies attempted to correct these defects by redesigning the product on three occasions. On January 14, 2002, three days after CPSC contacted Horizon to schedule an inspection of the company's documents, a full report was made to CPSC. In April 2002, CPSC and Horizon announced a voluntary recall of 5,900 defective "Paragon," "Quantum" and "Omega" brand treadmills. According to federal law, manufacturers, distributors and retailers are required to report to CPSC immediately (within 24 hours) after obtaining information that reasonably supports the conclusion that a product contains a defect, which could create a substantial risk of injury to the public, presents an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death or violates a federal safety standard. In agreeing to settle the matter, Johnson Health Tech Co. and Horizon Fitness Inc. deny that the treadmills were defective and that they violated the reporting requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act. (10-29-04)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that Sears, Roebuck and Co., of Hoffman Estates, Ill. has agreed to pay a $500,000 civil penalty to settle allegations that it violated federal reporting requirements. Between April 1999 and September 2001, Sears received about 1,600 reports of fuel leakage and fuel tank cracking with certain models of Craftsman rear-engine riding lawn mowers. Although there were no known injuries or deaths involving these lawn mowers, the company failed to report the defect to CPSC as required under the Consumer Product Safety Act. Murray Inc., of Lawrenceburg, Tenn., manufactured 36,000 rear-engine riding mowers for Sears under the Craftsman label. Murray recalled the lawn mowers in March 2003 and paid a $375,000 civil penalty in September 2003 for filing a late report on the lawn mowers. According to federal law, manufacturers, distributors and retailers are required to report to CPSC immediately (within 24 hours) after obtaining information that reasonably supports the conclusion that a product contains a defect, which could create a substantial risk of injury to the public, presents an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death or violates a federal safety standard. In agreeing to settle the matter, Sears, Roebuck and Co. denies that it violated the reporting requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act. (10-29-04)
The staff of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today presented to the Commissioners a draft proposed fire safety standard for mattresses. The draft proposed standard addresses fires ignited by an open flame that typically involves the bedclothes. The CPSC staff also recommended an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to develop a standard for bedclothes flammability. From 1995 through 1999, mattresses and bedding were the first items to ignite in an estimated 19,400 residential fires each year. These fires resulted in an estimated 440 deaths, 2,230 injuries, and $273.9 million property loss annually. Staff estimates that most of these deaths and injuries would be addressed by the draft proposed standard. The mattress standard would limit the size of the fire and prevent or delay the time to flashover (when the entire contents of the room ignite). This would allow more time to escape the fire and reduce deaths and injuries. Information available to the staff indicates that materials are commercially available that can be used to produce comfortable, practical and reasonably priced mattresses with significantly improved fire performance. CPSC staff analyzed test results and concluded that certain bedclothes, once ignited, can be major contributors to the size of a fire. Staff recommended that the Commissioners begin rulemaking proceedings to set standards to limit the size of fires produced by these bedclothes. This would preserve the additional escape time afforded by the draft proposed mattress standard. The CPSC Commissioners will consider the staff's draft proposed standard and will vote on whether or not to publish the proposed standard in the Federal Register. No timetable for the vote has been decided. (11-01-04)
"When you change your clock for Standard Time on October 31, remember to test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries," says Hal Stratton, Chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). "Keep cigarettes, matches, lighters and candles away from children who might unintentionally start a fire." "A working smoke alarm should be placed on every level of the home and in every bedroom," Chairman Stratton says. Commission staff is promoting fire safety and encouraging consumers to maintain working smoke alarms in their homes. In addition, CPSC has posted fire safety tips at www.cpsc.gov and is distributing fire safety information to urban and rural communities at risk. An estimated 2,850 people die and 15,900 people are injured annually because of fires in residences. These fires result in property losses of about $3.8 billion annually. "Reducing this fire toll is a priority for CPSC," says Chairman Stratton. "Consumers should keep ignition sources away from children, install and maintain smoke alarms and develop and practice a fire escape plan." Although more than 90 percent of homes have smoke alarms, millions of homes have alarms that do not work. CPSC recommends that consumers test each smoke alarm every month to make sure it is working properly. Missing or dead batteries are the main causes for non-working smoke alarms. Replace the battery in the smoke alarm as soon as it begins to chirp, indicating a low battery. Consider using smoke alarms that come with 10-year batteries. These alarms with long-life batteries should also be tested monthly. In addition, CPSC recommends that every home have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm near every sleeping area. Consumers need to regularly test and replace batteries in CO alarms too. CPSC has worked to strengthen smoke alarm performance and installation requirements and is studying ways to make the alarms more effective in waking children and alerting older people. Between 1980 and 1999, residential fire-related deaths declined substantially. In 1980, approximately 4,560 people died; in recent years, that number dropped to 2,850 annually. This decline in deaths can be attributed, in part, to CPSC and industry activities. This work included safety standards for cigarette-resistant mattresses and upholstered furniture, heating and cooking equipment, electrical products, general wearing apparel, children's sleepwear, child-resistant lighters, fireworks, smoke alarms and residential sprinklers. CPSC has designated fire safety as one of its top priorities for the next five years, with the goal of reducing fire deaths further. CPSC recommends that consumers follow these tips to help prevent fires, deaths and injuries:
As the weather turns colder, consumers need to be aware of an invisible killer that can seep through the home, causing serious injury or death. In Benton Harbor, Mich., three family members were hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a malfunctioning furnace or gas water heater. In Salt Lake City, Utah, a man was hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning after the furnace in his condominium malfunctioned. These incidents are not old news; they occurred just last month. To help prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges consumers to have a professional inspection of all fuel-burning heating systems, including furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, water heaters, space heaters, chimneys, flues and vents. "Each year, CO poisoning from heating systems, water heaters and ranges and ovens kills about 80 people in the U.S.," says CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "Many of these tragedies could be prevented by having a professional check these appliances annually for proper operation and CO leaks." CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by burning fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, kerosene, coal or wood. Properly installed and operating fuel-burning appliances pose minimal CO hazards. However, under certain conditions, all appliances that burn fuels can leak deadly levels of CO into the home. The initial symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to flu (but without the fever) and include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Exposure to high levels of CO can cause death. CPSC recommends that the yearly professional inspection include checking chimneys, flues and vents for leakage, blockage by debris and to make sure they are not loose or disconnected. Birds, other animals and insects can build nests in vents over spring and summer, resulting in blockages that cause deadly exhaust to enter the home. The inspector should also check appliance operation to ensure proper fuel input rate, gas pressure and operating temperatures. In addition, the inspector should check appliances for gas leaks and adequate ventilation. A supply of fresh air is important to help carry pollutants up the chimney, stovepipe or flue, and fresh air is necessary for the complete combustion of any fuel. Never block ventilation air openings and check the appliance filter to ensure it is clean. Make sure the appliance is operating on the fuel that it is designed to use. To convert an appliance to burn propane, hire a professional to do the modification. "CPSC recommends that every home have a CO alarm in the hallway near bedrooms in each sleeping area," says Chairman Stratton. "A CO alarm can wake you up and give you time to save your family." The CO alarm should meet one of these standards: Canadian Standards Association 6.19-01, 2001; Underwriters Laboratories Inc. 2034, Second Edition, October 1998; or the International Approval Services 6-96, Second Edition, June 1, 1998. Check batteries monthly and replace them annually. CPSC worked with the furnace and boiler industry and the manufacturers of high-temperature plastic vent (HTPV) pipes to conduct a vent pipe recall program. The program's purpose is to replace, free, an estimated 250,000 HTPV pipe systems attached to gas or propane furnaces or boilers in consumers' homes. The HTPV pipes could crack or separate at the joints and leak CO. Consumers should call the HTPV pipe recall hotline toll-free at (800) 758-3688, between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week, to verify whether their appliance venting systems are subject to this program. CPSC staff continues to work with the furnace industry and other interested parties to develop new technologies to address the hazards of CO poisoning and fire. Results include a furnace voluntary standard that includes requirements for blocked-vent shut-off devices to protect against blocked vent pipes and chimneys, and vented heater requirements to guard against a vent pipe becoming separated from the furnace. Both conditions could lead to CO poisonings. Although improvements have been made in modern furnaces, they do not protect against all conditions that can lead to CO exposure. All gas-fired furnaces manufactured since 1987 have flame roll-out protection technology that prevents flames from spilling out of the furnace's combustion chamber and starting a fire. Consumers should never use gasoline-powered generators or charcoal grills indoors or in attached garages because of the risk of CO poisoning. Opening doors and windows or operating fans cannot supply adequate ventilation and can be deadly. Use a generator outside in a dry area away from doors, windows and vents that could allow CO to come indoors. Even with a CO alarm, never use a gasoline-powered generator or a charcoal grill inside. (10-19-04)
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) made corrections today to a Consumer Reports story entitled: Hazard in Aisle 5. CPSC's executive director notified Consumer Reports of concerns regarding their story in a letter to the magazine's president, which accompanies this press release and is posted on CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov. Consumer Reports based its claim that the market is unsafe on false premises. Consumer Reports falsely asserted that it found 48 consumer products that violated CPSC safety standards. Based on an analysis of information from Consumers Union, CPSC technical experts have concluded that at least 34 of the products listed by Consumer Reports do not violate any CPSC standard. Two additional products had already been recalled by the agency before the Consumer Reports article was published. CSPC continues its efforts to locate and evaluate the remaining products identified by Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports falsely asserted that the number of CPSC recalls is declining. In fact, CPSC recalls are up from 279 in 2003 to 356 in 2004 – higher than the yearly average for recalls over the last decade. In 2004 CPSC recalled more consumer products than in any prior year in its 30-year history. CPSC is also using its enforcement powers to make sure firms give consumer safety top priority. In fiscal year 2004, CPSC imposed $4.2 million in civil penalties. This is the third-highest annual civil penalty amount in the agency's 30-year history. CPSC worked cooperatively with the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to send several individuals to prison for violating federal safety standards. While CPSC appreciates the efforts of Consumer Reports to identify potentially hazardous products, we encourage its publisher and editors to avoid needlessly alarming consumers and to avoid delay in telling CPSC about any hazardous products they discover. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772 or visit www.cpsc.gov. (10-19-04)
The first full year of data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) National Burn Center Reporting System shows that gasoline and other flammable liquids are frequently involved in clothing-related burns to children. In a new report, CPSC staff reviewed 209 children's clothing burn injury reports received from March 2003 through June 2004 and found that more than one-half involved gasoline or other flammable liquids. "One of CPSC's top priorities is fire safety," CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton says. "The high number of children's burns involving gasoline is shocking. Parents need to know about this serious hazard and keep gasoline and other flammable liquids away from children." Developed in cooperation with the American Burn Association and Shriners Hospitals for Children, the CPSC's National Burn Center Reporting System collects comprehensive reports on clothing-related burns to children under age 15 from the 105 burn centers that treat children. These incidents involve the ignition, melting or smoldering of clothing worn by children. To support this effort, the National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) works cooperatively with CPSC to retrieve and preserve children's clothing involved in burn injuries – an action that greatly enhances the investigative process. Garments collected by fire officials are forwarded to CPSC headquarters for inspection. At the suggestion of the NASFM, a committee consisting of the National Volunteer Fire Council, National Fire Protection Association, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and NASFM developed a protocol for use by "first responders" across the country. For each incident reported, the burn center provides CPSC with preliminary information on the incident. A CPSC investigator is assigned to the case to conduct an in-depth investigation, interviewing the victim when possible, as well as parents, fire officials and medical personnel. All reports are reviewed and maintained in CPSC's epidemiological databases. Here are some highlights from the CPSC staff report on the first year's data collected through the National Burn Center Reporting System:
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Century's "Assura" Infant Car Seat/Carrier
Century Stroller (five different travel systems)
Graco Carrier/ Swing Seats
Graco Infant Swing (three designs)
Graco Travel Lite Infant Swing
Graco Toddler Bed