Black & Decker Recalls Surge The Reversible Shar-Pei Dog Hand Puppet; Possible Choking Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Black & Decker Household Products Group of Shelton, Conn., is voluntarily recalling about 35,000 Surge reversible Shar-pei dog hand puppets. These puppets passed all toy safety tests specified under federal regulations at the time they were shipped. However, in response to recent consumer concerns and product returns, Black & Decker initiated additional testing, which revealed that the puppets' eyes, over time, could detach, posing a potential choking hazard to children. Although no injuries have been reported, the company is taking this action as a preventive measure.

The puppets, which were not manufactured by Black & Decker, were distributed in retail stores throughout the United States from April 1994 through November 1994 as premiums (free gifts) with new Black & Decker SurgeXpress Irons, models F850, F855, F860S, F860SP, F895, F895S, and F895SP. Black & Decker also made the puppets available through direct mail order.

The puppets, all labeled with "Surge " on a sewn-on tag on the bottom, are approximately 11 inches tall and have either brown or amber (orange) eyes.

Consumers should immediately take the hand puppet away from children and call Black & Decker for a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope in which to return the puppet for a $10.00 refund plus applicable shipping and handling expenses. For more information about this recall and to obtain a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope for returning the puppet, call Black & Decker at (800) 318-7508 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.