Recall: Cutco Cutlery Corporation Recalls Knife Blocks

February 21, 2002 Alert #02-522

CPSC, Cutco Cutlery Corporation Announce Recall of Knife Blocks

PRODUCT: Knife Blocks - Cutco Cutlery Corporation of Olean, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 28,000 knife block sets. The knife blocks are constructed of wood and designed to be portable or wall mounted. The recalled knife blocks are in the Cutco Space Saver Set. The Space Saver Set contains five knives, a sharpener, and the knife block. Only the knife block is involved in this recall; the knives are not part of this recall. The Space Saver Set was sold nationwide from August 1997 through October 2001 for about $350.

PROBLEM: The longest knife in the set when inserted "blade side-up" can protrude through the bottom of the knife block, presenting a risk of laceration injuries to consumers when the block is carried.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES: Cutco has received one report of an incident in which a consumer was cut due to a knife protruding through the bottom of the block, resulting in her receiving stitches.

WHAT TO DO: Consumers should make sure all knives are inserted "blade side down" and NOT move the block until they contact Cutco toll free at (800) 828-0448 between 8 a.m. and 12 a.m ET Monday through Friday for information on this repair. Consumers will receive a brass plate to install on the bottom of the knife block to prevent the knives from protruding. Purchasers were sent direct mail notification of this recall along with a repair kit.