Recall: Inca Imports Recalls Stuffed Bears

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 23, 2001 Release # 01-205

Stuffed Bear Recall Hotline: (800) 279-4040 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Nychelle Fleming, (301) 504-7063

CPSC, Inca Imports Announce Recall of Stuffed Bears

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Inca Imports, of Denver, Colo., is voluntarily recalling about 2,600 stuffed bears. The noses, bells, and eyes of the bears can detach, presenting a choking hazard to young children. The eyes also present a sharp point hazard.

CPSC and Inca Imports have not received any reports of injuries. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled bears come in three sizes: small (8 1/2"), medium (12") and large (17"). The recalled bears have plastic eyes and noses, and red ribbon bows with bells. They are made of alpaca fur. The bears have a small sticker on the back side of the ribbon which reads in part, "Made in Peru."

Stores in tourist areas throughout Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas sold the bears from July 1997 through February 2001 for between $20 to $50.

Consumers should take these stuffed bears away from young children immediately and return them to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. Consumers also can call Inca Imports toll-free at (800) 279-4040 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday or write to Don Donahue, Inca Imports 451 E. 58th Ave, P.O. Box 132, Denver, CO 80216.

The U.S. Customs Service in Denver, Colo., notified CPSC of these stuffed bears during import screening at the port.