Recall: Envirotech Electric Fans Recall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 7, 1997 Release # 98-003

CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076

CPSC and Retailers Announce Recall of Envirotech Electric Fans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and 10 retailers are recalling about 780,000 plastic oscillating electric fans imported by Envirotech Electric Inc. of Cerritos, Calif. The fans' plastic enclosures are extremely flammable and the power cords can come apart and expose live electrical parts, presenting fire and shock hazards to consumers. In addition, these fans carry counterfeit Underwriters Laboratories (UL) marks and do not comply with UL's safety requirements.

CPSC is not aware of any injuries involving these fans. This recall is being issued to prevent the possibility of injury.

The 3-speed oscillating fans subject to this recall come in either the floor stand or desk top models, which are 8, 9, 12, 16 or 18 inches high. The word "Envirotech" is printed on the fan along with one of the following model numbers: FB-102H, FBD-208, FBD-612, FC-071A, FC-0171A, FC-1071A, FCP-167J, FD-125J, FD-12SD, FD-164J, FD-122L, FS- 124J, FS-161J, FS-164J or FS-181J. The model number is on a silver label on the bottom of the fan's base.

The fans are packaged in multi-colored cardboard boxes that read in part, "Envirotech...Made in China."

The fans have been sold nationwide from January 1997 through June 1997 for between $15 and $35, depending on the model, through the following retail stores: Hechinger's, All American Home Centers, Home Base, BJ's Wholesale Club, Ace Hardware, Marc's, Menard's, Rose's Stores and Supply One.

Consumers should stop using these fans immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumers should call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 if they have questions about this recall.

U.S. Customs alerted CPSC to this hazard.