Recall: Extension Cords & Power Strip Surge Protectors Recalled by Okura

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 31, 1998 Release # 98-160

Company Phone Number: (800) 327-7522 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052

CPSC, Okura USA Inc. Announce Recall of Extension Cords and Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Okura USA Inc. of Miami, Fla., is recalling about 6,600 extension cords and power strip surge protectors. The extension cords and power strips have undersized wires that cannot carry the advertised load, plugs that are not polarized properly and no overcurrent protection, presenting fire, electrocution and shock hazards to consumers.

Okura USA Inc. is not aware of any injuries involving these electrical products. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

There are 600 extension cords being recalled. The cords for household use are white and have 3 outlets. The cords for outdoor use are orange and have one outlet. "China" is embossed on each cord's plug or receptor. The cords are available in the following lengths.

The cords are packaged in cardboard wrappers. Labeling on the packaging reads in part, "NIPPON AMERICA...MADE IN CHINA."

There are 6,000 power strip surge protectors being recalled. The power strips have six black outlets. They are made of beige metal with a black cord and red power light. A silver sticker on the bottom of the strip reads in part, "AC SURGE PROTECTOR...125v/125AMP." The power strip is sold in a cardboard box. Labeling on the packaging reads in part, "AC SURGE PROTECTOR...NIPPON AMERICA...MODEL NO. 14-515."

Discount stores in Florida sold the extension cords and power strips from March 1995 through January 1998 for about $1 to $9, depending on which specific product was purchased.

Consumers should stop using these extension cords and power strips immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information about this recall, consumers should call Okura USA Inc. at (800) 327-7522 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday from everywhere but Florida. The foll-free number from Florida is 888-327-7522.