Recall: Brookdale International Systems Inc. Announce Recall of Emergency Escape Smoke Hoods

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 11, 2002 Release # 02-178

Brookdale Recall Hotline: (800) 459-3822 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058

CPSC, Brookdale International Systems Inc. Announce Recall of Emergency Escape Smoke Hoods

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Brookdale International Systems, Inc., of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 27,400 emergency escape smoke hoods that may have been purchased for use against tear gas or chemical warfare agents. The smoke hood is a one- time emergency use, personal safety device that provides quick, temporary protection from smoke in the event of a fire. In some instances, consumers purchased the smoke hoods for protection from tear gas or chemical warfare agents, but the smoke hoods should be used only to provide protection from smoke caused by fires.

CPSC and Brookdale are not aware of any incidents involving these emergency escape smoke hoods. The recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

This recall involves the EVAC-U8 emergency escape smoke hoods. The smoke hood is a bright green plastic cylinder with a clear red top. The cylinder is about 5- inches tall. The words "EVAC-U8 Emergency Escape Smoke Hood" are printed on the cylinder along with the serial number and expiration date. Recalled smoke hoods have a serial number of A97,921 or higher, and an expiration date of May 1, 2002 or later.

Web-based distributors, catalogues, and travel stores sold these smoke hoods from May 1997 through April 2002 for about $70.

Consumers who purchased the EVAC-U8 emergency escape smoke hood for protection from tear gas and chemical warfare agents may return the product to Brookdale International Systems, Inc. 1-8755 Ash Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 6P3 for a refund, including the cost of postage. For more information consumers can contact Brookdale International Systems at (800) 459-3822 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.