Recall: Power Strip Surge Protectors Recall by Howard Berger

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Ken Giles
April 22, 1997	(301) 504-7052
Release # 97-109

CPSC, Howard Berger Inc. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Howard Berger Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling about 30,000 power strip surge protectors. The power strip surge protectors have undersized wires and loose connections, presenting fire, shock, and electrocution hazards.

CPSC and Howard Berger Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these surge protectors. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The surge protector has 8 outlets. It is made of a beige-colored plastic with a red power switch and a black reset button. The power switch and reset button are located on the raised end of the surge protector, which is about 1/2 inch higher than the outlets. The electrical cord is beige. The following words are embossed on the bottom of the surge protector, "8 Outlet Power Strip...MP8...Made in China." There is a silver label affixed to the bottom of surge protector that reads, "UL Listed 50E8." The surge protector was packaged in a clear plastic bag with a cardboard header. Labeling on the bag reads in part, "Guard Security Hardware...Made in China." Labeling on the cardboard header reads in part, "8 Outlet Power Center...MP8...Made in China."


Discount, variety, and hardware stores in the Northeast sold the surge protectors from January 1995 through October 1996 for about $6.

Consumers should stop using the recalled surge protectors immediately and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Howard Berger Inc. at (800) 695-4827. Consumers who live in the New York metropolitan area should call (718) 272-1540.

CPSC learned of this problem during joint surveillance with the U.S. Customs Service.