CPSC and Sprint International Announce Hair Dryer Recall
WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sprint International of
Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling approximately 1,160 hair
dryers. Since these dryers do not have a full immersion
protection plug, they present a risk of electrocution if
dropped in water while the dryer is in the "on" position.
The hair dryers also present a fire hazard due to inadequate
wiring.
Before the use of immersion protection devices, there
were an average of 18 electrocutions involving hand-held
hair dryers each year. Since the introduction of immersion
protection devices for hand-held hair dryers the number
decreased to two electrocution deaths in 1992.
The current voluntary industry standard, which has been
in effect since January 1, 1991, requires hand-held hair
dryers to provide full immersion protection when either in
the "on" or "off" position. The recalled dryers do not have
this protection.
CPSC and Sprint International are not aware of any
injuries involving these hair dryers. This recall is being
conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.
The hair dryers bear the Sprint name and are labeled in
part, "HD-150 1250W... AC-110V 60HZ." The dryers were
packaged in boxes labeled in part, "SPRINT...COMPACT PRO
HD-150...MADE IN CHINA." Retail stores in the New York
Metropolitan area sold the dryers from January 1994 to April
1996 for about $10.
Consumers who own these hair dryers should stop using
them immediately and return them to the stores where
purchased for a full refund. Consumers in the New York area
should call (718) 499-5511 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
eastern time for additional information. Consumers outside
the New York Metropolitan area should call (800) 955-3115
for more information.
When buying a hair dryer, consumers should look for a
large, rectangular-shaped plug at the end of the cord. The
certification mark of a recognized testing laboratory should
also be visible on the hair dryer or on the hair dryer's
packaging. However, even with this improved protection,
under no circumstances should consumers use a hair dryer
where it could come in contact with water. Electricity and
water are a potentially deadly combination.