Recall: Power Strip Recalled by Consolidated Stores

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Media Relations
April 16, 1996	(301) 504-7908
Release # 96-104

CPSC, Consolidated Stores Corp. Announce Power Strip Recall

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Consolidated Stores Corp. of Columbus, Ohio, is recalling about 125,000 six-outlet power strips. The electrical wiring in the power strip cord could overheat and possibly cause a fire. In addition, the poor quality and construction of the power strip poses an electrocution hazard for consumers.

While no injuries have been associated with the use of the power strips, Consolidated Stores is aware of two reports of tools that were damaged after being plugged into a power strip. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The beige metal power strips, item 81488, measure 12 inches long, 2.25 inches wide and 1.5 inches deep. The power strips have six black receptacles, a red on/off indicator switch, and a black cord. They were packaged in a blue box labeled in part, "FULL SURGE 6 OUTLET POWER STRIP ... 6 RECEPTACLES. CIRCUIT BREAKER. 5 FT CORD ... 15 AMPS MAX." The back of the box is labeled in part: "SURGE PROTECTED 6-OUTLET CENTER ... SAFETY GUARD ... MADE IN CHINA UNION FIELD INDUSTRIES LTD CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA 91789 ... UPC code 0 83726 81488 5." There are no identifying markings or labels on the power strips.

Odd Lots, Big Lots, and All For One retail stores in the East, South, and Midwest sold the power strips from May 1995 to December 1995 for about $5 each. Consumers should stop using the power strips immediately and return them to an Odd Lots, Big Lots, or All For One store for a full refund or exchange. For more information, consumers should call Michael Schlonsky at Consolidated Stores Corp. at (800) 877-1253, extension 6807.