Recall: Gas Shut-Off Valves Recalled by Seismic Safety Products Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 16, 2002 Release # 02-163

Valve Recall Hotline: (800) 948-3782 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052

CPSC, Seismic Safety Products Inc. Announce Recall of Gas Shut-Off Valves

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Seismic Safety Products Inc., a subsidiary of Pacific Aerospace & Electronics Inc., both of Wenatchee, Wash., is voluntarily recalling approximately 600 Earthquake gas shut-off valves. These gas valves could stick in the open position allowing gas to flow freely, which poses a risk of serious injury to consumers from fire and explosion during an earthquake.

Seismic Safety Products has not received any reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled Northridge 2000 Earthquake Valves are about 3-1/2 inches wide by 2-1/2 inches high by 2 inches deep. The valves' bodies are made of aluminum and are coated with a blue color. The recalled valves have a white reset knob in the front that reads, "Northridge 2000 Valve" and a white label on the back that reads in part, "Models M75 [or M100], ASCE 25-97, RR#5370, CSA-OSA, 2 PSI Max Gas Flow." These valves were manufactured in the United States.

Seismic Safety Products sold the valves to plumbers in the Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle, Wash. areas from February 2001 through April 2001 for between $200 and $300. The company also sold these valves on their website at www.seismic-safety.com.

Consumers should contact Seismic Safety Products immediately at (800) 948-3782 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday to have their shut-off valve replaced free of charge. For more information, consumers also can write to: Pacific Aerospace & Electronics Inc., 430 Olds Station Road, Wenatchee, WA 98801.