Recall: Extension Cords Recalled by In-Mar Trading

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT:
September 4, 1997	(301) 504-7908
Release # 97-185

CPSC and In-Mar Trading Inc. Announce Recall of Extension Cords

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), In-Mar Trading Inc. of Levittown, Puerto Rico is recalling over 14,600 extension cords. The cords have undersized wires that cannot carry the advertised load, plugs that are not polarized properly, poor strain relief and lack of overcurrent protection presenting fire, shock and electrocution hazards.

CPSC and In-Mar Trading Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The recalled extension cords are white, brown or green. The white or brown cords each have double wires, three female plugs and one male plug, and are available in the following lengths: 6, 9, 15 and 20 feet. The green cords have double wires, 9 female plugs and one male plug, and a power switch. The green cord is available in a length of 12 feet. There is no labeling on the cords.

The cords are packaged in red, white and black cardboard display sleeves that are labeled in part, "SUPER POWER EXTENSION CORD...MADE IN CHINA." The last 5 digits of the UPC code range from 70027 through 70037.

Discount stores sold the extension cords throughout Puerto Rico from January 1996 through June 1997 for about $2 or $3.

Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. If consumers have questions about this recall, they should call In-Mar Trading Inc. at (787) 796-1519.

Consumer inquiries in Spanish can be directed to CPSC's hotline at (800) 638-2772. Media inquiries in Spanish can be directed to Jésus Chaírez, CPSC, at (214) 827-6239.