Recall: Bicycle Helmets Recalled by Rand International

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 5, 2000 Release # 00-139

Rand Recall Hotline (800) 338-7677 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058

CPSC, Rand International Announce Recall of Bicycle Helmets

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Rand International, of Farmingdale, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 70,000 bicycle helmets. These bicycle helmets fail impact testing and labeling required under CPSC's Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets, violating the Consumer Product Safety Act. Riders wearing these helmets are not properly protected from falls, and could suffer severe head injuries.

CPSC and Rand International are not aware of any injuries or incidents involving these products. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries and incidents.

The recalled helmets are various models of the L.A. Cruisin' bicycle helmets. The helmets were sold in various child, youth and adult sizes. The youth and adult-sized helmets are white or black and the child sizes are either blue or pink. A label inside the helmet reads, "Manufactured by Rand International," and MADE IN CHINA." Writing on the packaging reads, "RAND," "L.A. Cruisin'," and "Meets CPSC & ASTM Standards78."

Kmart and Rose's stores nationwide sold these bicycle helmets from April 1999 through March 2000 for about $8.

Consumers should stop wearing these bicycle helmets immediately, and return them to Rand International for a free replacement helmet. For more information, contact Rand International at (800) 338-7677 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or write to Rand International, Attention: Customer Service Dept., 51 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735-4718.