Recall: Power Strip Surge Protectors Recalled by First Choice Products

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 14, 1998 Release # 98-168

Company Phone Number: (800) 644-8277 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076

CPSC, First Choice Products Inc. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), First Choice Products Inc., of City of Industry, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 194,200 power strip surge protectors. The power strips have undersized, cracked or corroded wiring and misaligned plugs, which present fire, shock and electrocution hazards. CPSC and First Choice Products Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these power strips. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

There are two models of power strips being recalled. Both models have six outlets, and there is no significant labeling on either power strip. One model is made of cream-colored plastic, is 4 feet long, and has black outlets and a black power cord. This model was sold in a striped black and silver box labeled in part, "6-OUTLET POWER STRIP...MADE IN CHINA." The other model is made of cream-colored plastic, is 4 feet long, and has flush, cream-colored outlets and a black power cord. This model was sold in a black, blue and orange box labeled in part, "6-OUTLET POWER STRIP...MADE IN CHINA."

Small independent hardware, salvage, specialty, discount and surplus stores sold the power strips from March 1995 through July 1998 for about $2. The power strip in the striped black and silver box was sold nationwide. The power strip in the black, blue and orange box was sold in Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois and Texas.

Consumers should stop using the power strips immediately, and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information about this recall, consumers should call First Choice Products Inc. at (800) 644-8277 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. PDT Monday through Friday.