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CPSC testing found that the cords' wires are undersized and the cords' plugs were put together improperly. The cords can catch fire or shock people.
Approximately 230,000
For further information, consumers may call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC.
Recall Details
Washington, D.C. - CPSC, USA Maxam Inc. (also known to the public as Wholesale World and Tech Mart) of Houston, Texas, is recalling approximately 230,000 extension cords. CPSC testing found that the cords' wires are undersized and the cords' plugs were put together improperly. The cords can catch fire or shock people.
The recalled extension cords were sold in the following lengths: 6 feet (item PA-1106S), 9 feet (item PA-1109S), 12 feet (item PA-1112S), 15 feet (item PA-1115S), 18 feet (item PA-1118S), and 21 feet (item PA-1121S). The cords were sold in cardboard sleeves labeled in part, "***ft. *** TECH man *** MADE IN CHINA *** Extension Cord ***125V***." The individual cords, which may be labeled "Made in China," were distributed to retail stores in New York, Florida, Georgia, California, and Indiana from June 1992 through January 12, 1994.
Consumers should stop using these dangerous extension cords and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. Consumers may also return them by mail for a refund to USA Maxam Inc., 5610 Savoy, Houston, TX 77036.
Neither CPSC nor USA Maxam Inc. is aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. However, a recent CPSC study estimated that in 1987, 4,600 fires involving extension cords resulted in 70 deaths, 230 injuries, and $42 million in property damage.
These extension cords were discovered during routine CPSC marketplace surveillance.
Consumers should stop using these dangerous extension cords and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. Consumers may also return them by mail for a refund to USA Maxam Inc., 5610 Savoy, Houston, TX 77036.
Neither CPSC nor USA Maxam Inc. is aware of any injuries involving these extension cords. However, a recent CPSC study estimated that in 1987, 4,600 fires involving extension cords resulted in 70 deaths, 230 injuries, and $42 million in property damage.
Note: Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic. Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
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