WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Collins International, of
Fair Lawn, N.J., and Eagle Hardware & Garden of Renton,
Wash., are voluntarily recalling approximately 7,200 Ratchet
Tie-Downs. The tie-downs are used to secure heavy items or
oversize loads to trailers or trucks, or to secure furniture
to hand trolleys. However, the Ratchet Tie-Downs may break
even if the weight placed on them is significantly less than
the 750-pound limit stated on the package. If the tie-downs
break, the secured load may pull free, resulting in injury
or property damage.
Collins International has received three reports of the
tie-downs breaking. Although the company is not aware of any
injuries, Collins International has received reports of
property damage. This recall is being conducted to prevent
injuries.
The tie-down consists of four pieces: a black, nylon
mesh strap; two black, vinyl-coated "S" hooks; and a brass,
L-shaped rachet hook. Consumers operate the tie-down by
inserting the strap through the ratchet hook, locking the
strap in place, and securing the load by attaching the "S"
hooks to the vehicle or hand trolley. The tie-down is
packaged in clear plastic attached to a red, white, and blue
cardboard backing which reads in part, "Professional
Style Ratchet Tie Down ... Adjustable Length 4 ft. to 15 ft.
... Safe-Secure-Tight! ..."
Eagle Hardware & Garden sold the tie-downs nationwide
from August 1995 to July 1996 for $4. Some of the tie-downs
may have been resold at other stores.
Consumers should stop using the Ratchet Tie-Downs
immediately and return them to the nearest Eagle Hardware &
Garden store for a full refund. For more information,
consumers can call Collins International toll-free at (888)
968-0070.