| Office of Information and Public Affairs | Washington, DC 20207 |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 3, 2008 Release #08-388 |
Firm's Recall Hotline: (866) 458-2472 |
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: MasterForce 3.6-volt Cordless Screwdrivers
Units: About 42,000
Importer: Menards, of Eau Claire, Wisc.
Manufacturer: Great Star Industry Co., of China
Hazard: The battery can overheat and ignite during charging, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. There is no protective device on the lithium battery to prevent overheating.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm and CPSC have received three reports of fires. One consumer suffered burns to the hand, and another experienced temporary hearing loss.
Description: The recalled cordless screwdrivers are green and gray in color. “MASTERFORCE” is printed on the top of the tool. “LITHIUM-ION TECHNOLOGY” and “241-0717” are printed on the handle.
Sold at: Menards stores from April 2007 through May 2008 for about $30.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the screwdrivers and return them to any Menards store for a free replacement or refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, call toll-free at (866) 458-2472 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.menards.com