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Product Recall Number: 00-193

Why was Household extension cords recalled?

The cords have undersized wires, incorrect ratings, lack overcurrent protection and allow polarize plugs to be incorrectly inserted into the receptacles. These cords present fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers.

Household extension cords
Here's product recall specific data for Household extension cords.

  • Product Recall Number: 00-193

  • Product Safety Warning Number:

  • Date: 1999-11-03

  • Product Safety Warning Date:

  • Name Of Product: Household extension cords

  • Description: Fairlong International of Addison, Ill., is recalling more than 149,600 household extension cords. The recalled cords are made of white or brown plastic, measure 6 or 9 feet long and have 3 receptacles. A plastic safety cover is imprinted with caution statements, which include "Avoid Hazards, Keep Children Away, Unplug When Not In Use, Rated 125-Volts, For Indoor Use Only." The cords are marked with the following information, "SPT-2, 18AWGX2C, VW-1, 60 C." The cords were sold in blue and yellow cardboard wrappers. The cords are made in China. Wholesale and discount stores in the Chicago area, and a few stores in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan and Ohio, sold the cords from July 1997 through October 1999 for about $1 to $2. PROBLEM: The cords have undersized wires, incorrect ratings, lack overcurrent protection and allow polarize plugs to be incorrectly inserted into the receptacles. These cords present fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers. INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported. WHAT TO DO: Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumers also can return the cords directly to the company for a refund, plus the cost of postage. For instructions, consumers should call Fairlong at (800) 577-8197 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

  • Hazard Description: The cords have undersized wires, incorrect ratings, lack overcurrent protection and allow polarize plugs to be incorrectly inserted into the receptacles. These cords present fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers.

  • Consumer Action: None Listed

  • Original Product Safety Warning Announcement: None Listed

  • Remedy Type: Refund

  • Units: More than 149,600

  • Incidents: None reported.

  • Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumers also can return the cords directly to the company for a refund, plus the cost of postage.

  • Sold At: Wholesale and discount stores in the Chicago area, and a few stores in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan and Ohio, sold the cords from July 1997 through October 1999 for about $1 to $2.

  • Importers: None Listed

  • Manufacturers: None Listed

  • Distributors: None Listed

  • Manufactured In: China

  • Custom Label: None Listed

  • Custom Field: None Listed