Thrifty Paper Co. Recalls Electric Fans

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2002
Release # 03-005

Electric Fan Recall Hotline: (888) 281-3281
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7051

CPSC, Thrifty Paper Co. Announce Recall of Electric Fans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Thrifty Paper Co. Inc., of Hempstead, NY, is voluntarily recalling about 26,000 electric fans. These electric fans have undersized wiring, use a power plug that is not polarized, overheat and have an improperly sized grill, all of which could cause electrocution, electric shock, fire, and finger entrapment hazards to consumers.

CPSC and Thrifty Paper Co. have not received any reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled electric fans, which have the brand name "Top Choice" printed on the fan blade cover, were sold under seven different model names: SF16BU(BE), SF16BK, DF16BU(BE), DF18, FL18, and BSD-18066. The model name can be found on the motor housing. The DF18 and FL18 models have a label that reads, "Hi Velocity Top Choice Air Circulator," which is also located on the fan blade cover. The three-speed, four-position fans are either floor-mounted or table-top units. The fans were manufactured in China.

Discount and variety stores in the metropolitan New York area sold these electric fans from April 2000 through June 2002 for between $10 and $15.

Consumers should stop using these electric fans immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers can also return the fans to the firm for a full refund, by mailing the unit to: 110 West Graham Ave., Hempstead, N.Y., 11550. For more information, contact Thrifty Paper Co. toll-free at (888) 281-3281 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.