Recall: Hot Pots Recalled by Atico International USA Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 6, 2003 Release # 03-090

Atico Recall Hotline: (800) 645-3867 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7051

CPSC, Atico International USA Inc. Announce Recall of Hot Pots

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Atico International USA Inc., of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 37,000 electrical hot pots. The bottom of the hot pot can separate from the top, which could pose a serious burn hazard to consumers.

Atico International has received five reports of the hot pots separating, though no injuries have been reported.

The recalled Kitchen Gourmet® Hot Pots, which are used to heat beverages, are made of white plastic and have a date code of 0702 on the bottom of the pot and box. The hot pots, which are shaped like a pitcher, also have the words, "Kitchen Gourmet," "Do Not Immerse in Water," and "Made in China" printed on the bottom.

Walgreens stores nationwide sold the hot pots from September 2002 through January 2003 for about $10.

Consumers should stop using the hot pots immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers also can receive a full refund by mailing the hot pot to Atico International USA Inc., 501 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. 33301. For more information, consumers can call Atico at (800) 645-3867 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or log on the company's website at www.aticousa.com