Recall: Gas Hose Recalled by Ruiz & Mele

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT:Ken Giles
June 20, 1996	(301) 504-7052
Release # 96-149

CPSC and Ruiz & Mele Announce Gas Hose Recall

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Ruiz & Mele Inc. of New Orleans, La., is voluntarily recalling about 4,500 gas hoses. The rubber hoses are originally intended for use with air tools. The recalled hoses have been modified and sold for use with propane gas seafood cookers. These hoses could leak gas, creating a fire hazard.

The red rubber hoses' inside diameter measures .25 inch. White labeling on the hose reads in part, "ID SERVICE AIR UPC 07869842221311." Brass fittings on the ends of the hose are stamped "7327." The hoses were available in two lengths: six feet (part number 306H) and 12 feet (part number 302H).

Small hardware stores in southeast Louisiana and coastal Mississippi sold individual hoses separately from other seafood cooker parts from June 1991 through October 1995. The six-foot hose sold for about $10, and the 12-foot hose sold for about $15.

Consumers who own these hoses should stop using their seafood cookers and contact Ruiz & Mele at (800) 375-0308 to receive a free replacement hose.

The company is not aware of any injuries or incidents associated with this product. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.