Recall: Flammable Spray String Recall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 1999 Release # 99-167

CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052

CPSC, Firms Announce Recall of Flammable Spray String

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), three firms, Stelex Enterprises Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif.; Major Import, of Whittier, Calif.; and LeSa Yang Family Ltd. of Diamond Bar, Calif., are recalling about 912,000 cans of spray string sold under the names "Crazy Ribbon" and "Crazy String." These spray strings' propellant is extremely flammable, creating a serious risk of burn injuries when sprayed near an open flame, such as birthday candles. Flammable products intended for use by children are banned by federal law.

CPSC is aware of at least one report of a burn injury resulting from the use of these spray strings. An 11-year-old boy suffered serious burns during his birthday party that left permanent scars.

Crazy Ribbon sprays strings of various colors, and comes in a round metal spray can about 6.5 inches high. The can is silver with a plastic cap that matches the color of the spray string. Depictions of various colored streamers cover the can. Writing on the can includes "CRAZY RIBBON" in multicolored block letters, "FOR PARTY CELEBRATION AND DECORATION," and "MADE IN TAIWAN."

Crazy String also sprays strings of various colors, and comes in a round metal spray can about 6.5 inches high. The can is silver with a plastic cap that matches the color of the spray string. Depictions of various colored streamers cover the can. Writing on the can includes "CRAZY STRING," "FOR PARTY CELEBRATION AND DECORATION," and "MADE IN TAIWAN."

Party and hobby stores nationwide sold the spray string from October 1996 through July 1999 for between $2 and $4.

Consumers should take these spray strings away from children and stop using it immediately. It can be returned to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 anytime.

Consumers can also view a video clip about this recall (transcript). This is in "streaming video" format.