FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 1999
Release # 99-172a
Company Phone Number: (800) 669-6394 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058
CPSC & Sonca Products Recall Toy Flashlights
PRODUCT: Toy flashlights - Sonca Products Ltd., of Hong Kong, is
voluntarily recalling about 5,500 toy flashlights. The flashlight came
with Playmobil's Coastal Search and Rescue Boats toy set (item 3063),
which included a rescue boat, rescue raft, diver, and captain among
other diving equipment. The toy set is not part of the recall, only the
flashlight. The flashlights are made of blue rubber, measure about 6.25
inches long, and have a black cord attached. The flashlight operates
with two "AA" batteries. The word "PLAYMOBIL" is on the side of the
flashlight. Independent toy stores nationwide sold the toy set
containing the recalled flashlight from July 1999 to September 1999 for
about $40.
PROBLEM: The spring in the flashlight's battery compartment can
dislodge, causing the batteries to overheat or leak. Children can suffer
burns from the leaking battery.
INCIDENTS/INJURIES: Sonca has received four reports from Europe of
batteries overheating or leaking. There have been two reports of minor
property damage and two minor injuries, including eye irritation and
skin burns.
WHAT TO DO: Consumers should take the flashlight away from children
immediately. Consumers should call Sonca at (800) 669-6394 between 7
a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday for instructions on returning
the flashlight for a $5 refund. Consumers also can access the company's
web site at www.sonca.com.
