Recall: Plastic Toy Storage Chests Recalled by IRIS U.S.A.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 3, 1998 Release # 99-032

Company Phone Number: (800) 320-4747 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Nychelle Fleming, (301) 504-7063

CPSC, IRIS U.S.A. Announce Recall of Plastic Toy Storage Chests

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), IRIS U.S.A. Inc., of Pleasant Prairie, Wis., is recalling about 100,000 plastic chests. These chests, that were originally marketed for the storage of toys, lack a lid-support device, do not have adequate ventilation when the lid is closed and have latches that secure the lids. Children could be entrapped and suffocate inside the chests.

CPSC and IRIS U.S.A. are not aware of any injuries involving these chests. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

These clear, plastic chests have either red or blue lids, and were sold under three model numbers: Model #WT-80 is 19.75 inches long, 21.875 inches wide and 18.75 inches high. Model #WT-120 is 19.25 inches long, 30.75 inches wide and 18.75 inches high. Model #WT-175 is 19.25 inches long, 30.75 inches wide and 28.25 inches high. The model numbers are listed on the instruction sheet and on the label. The labels also show the chest being used for the storage of toys, and contain the warning, "CAUTION: Do Not Sit On Lid. Do Not Climb In Trunk."

Retail and department stores, such as Target, sold these chests nationwide since January 1996 for about $25.

Consumers should immediately prevent children from having access to these chests, and stop using them for toy storage. Consumers in households with young children can return the chests to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information, consumers should call IRIS U.S.A. toll-free at (800) 320-4747 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.

These chests now being sold have labels showing the chests being used for the storage of items other than toys, and the statement "WARNING: SUFFOCATION HAZARD. NOT FOR USE BY CHILDREN."