Recall: Rattles Recalled by Michael Friedman

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued June 28, 1998, Revised July 10, 2001 Release # 98-134

CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Nychelle Fleming, (301) 504-7063

Note: Firm is out of business.

CPSC, Michael Friedman Corp. Announce Recall of Rattles

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Michael Friedman Corp. of Brooklyn, N.Y. is recalling about 2,000 rattles. Small parts can break off of the rattles, presenting choking and aspiration hazards to infants.

CPSC has received one report of a rattle separating and releasing small plastic balls from inside. No injury was reported.

The recalled rattles are sold under the "Hobby Horse" brand name. The rattles, measuring 5.25 inches high, look like roses. A green stem-like handle extends from the bottom of the pink or purple "rose" and bends upon itself in a somewhat circular fashion to form a handle. The words "Hong Kong" are embossed on the lower portion of the "rose." The rattles were packaged in clear plastic shrink wrap attached to a purple polka dotted bluish cardboard header, labeled "Hobby Horse...Baby Rattle."

Small children's clothing and discount stores nationwide sold the rattles from March 1997 to May 1998 for about $1 to $2.

Consumers should take the rattles away from infants immediately and discard or destroy them, or if possible, return the rattles to the store where purchased for a refund. However, the firm, Michael Friedman Corp., is out of business and cannot be contacted.