Recall: Toy Puzzles Recalled by Safari

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 18, 1999 Release # 99-081

Company Phone Number: (800) 615-3111 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Nychelle Fleming, (301) 504-7063

CPSC, Safari Ltd. Announce Recall of Toy Puzzles

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Safari Ltd., of Miami, Fla., is recalling more than 10,200 toy puzzles. The puzzle has two shapes that are small parts, presenting a potential choking hazard to young children.

CPSC and Safari Ltd. are not aware of any complaints or injuries involving these puzzles. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The child's wooden toy puzzle has 10 shapes. Each shape has a colorful paper laminated veneer and plastic knob handles. When the handled piece is lifted up, the name of the shape is revealed underneath. The small parts are the oval and rhombus shapes. The puzzle is labeled ?SHAPES...SAFARI...No.9536-12...1997 SAFARI LTD." The puzzle was packaged in plastic with a card insert that reads "SAFARI LTD...PEEK INSIDE PUZZLE, Made in Taiwan, NO. 9536-12 SHAPES."

Toy stores nationwide sold these puzzles from April 1998 through February 1999 for about $5.

Consumers should immediately take these puzzles away from young children and return them to Safari Ltd. for either a refund or a replacement. For instructions on returning the puzzle, consumers should call should call Safari Ltd. at (800) 615-3111 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

This matter was brought to CPSC's attention by the State of Connecticut, Department of Consumer Protection.

Shapes Safari puzzles currently on the market, model 9549-12, have been redesigned and are not involved in this recall.