WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 26) -- The U.S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission today warned consumers that some 200,000
household "trouble lights" or "mechanic's lights" sold in
the past year pose an imminent danger of serious or fatal
electric shock.
Consumers should immediately cease use of the product,
taking extreme care not to touch any metal parts when
disconnecting the light from the electrical outlet.
The light was manufactured by A. K. Electric
Corporation, Brooklyn, New York. It has been distributed
by several firms and sold by stores across the country,
including Woolco Department Stores, Zayre, Korvettes,
Food Fair, and J. J. Newberry.
The trouble light retails for about $1.50.
The potentially dangerous "trouble light" bears no brand
name, label, or other distinguishing marks. Its appearance
is similar to many other mechanics' lights. Consumers who
are uncertain whether they own a potentially hazardous
light should immediately discontinue use !of the product
and check with the store where it was purchased to identify
the manufacturer.
The product consists of either a 5, 10, or 20-foot flexible
cord with a male plug at one end and a light socket assembly
at the opposite end. The light bulb is enclosed by a metal
case and hinged wire guard with a hook at the top. The socket
assembly Contains an on-off switch together with a double female
receptacle subassembly. The insulating cover for the socket
assembly serves as a handle for the unit and is made of
exceptionally soft, flexible plastic.
If the handle is grasped in a normal manner, the user's
hand or fingers may, because of the soft, flexible plastic
cover, contact the metal of the receptacles, creating a
serious potential for electric shock.
This warning is being issued because it is the view of the
Commission that the "trouble light" in question is imminently
hazardous and presents an imminent and unreasonable risk of
death or severe personal injury to the public.
A CPSC spokesman said the Commission has investigated a
fatal electric shock in Florida which was believed to have
been caused by this model "trouble light."