Welcome to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Podcast for June 8th, 2007. I’m Patty Davis.

This week, CPSC staff is warning consumers who own a Kazuma Meerkat 50 Youth All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) that children are at risk of injury or death due to multiple safety defects with this off-road vehicle. The ATVs, which were imported by Kazuma Pacific Inc. were found to have several serious defects.

CPSC staff has determined that the Meerkat 50 lacks front brakes, has no parking brake, is missing a neutral indicator light, and can be started in gear. Additionally, the owner’s manual doesn’t contain complete information on safe operation and maintenance of the ATV.

CPSC staff recommends that consumers stop using the product immediately because it is unsafe and demand a refund from the importer or dealer due to the defective condition of the ATV.

Between December 2006 and May 2007, Kazuma Pacific has impeded CPSC’s efforts to protect the safety of children, by refusing to implement a corrective action plan for this ATV.

Kazuma Pacific has sold at least 2,700 Meerkat 50 ATVs and has stated that they are continuing to sell the units that CPSC staff found to be defective. Kazuma dealers and Web retailers nationwide have sold this ATV since 2003 for between $525 and $825.

CPSC staff is requesting that consumers immediately report any incidents involving the Kazuma Meerkat 50 to the CPSC Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or to the CPSC Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

In recall news this week -

BSH Home Appliances Corp. recalled about 2,000 Thermador® Ceramic Cooktops.

The cooktop can come on by itself when switched off, creating a fire hazard.

Also this week -

Cannondale recalled about 2,900 bicycles with carbon cranksets.

Simplicity Inc. recalled about 40,000 cribs due to fall, entrapment and choking hazards.

And Creative Expressions recalled about 43,100 children’s 1st birthday party hats due to a choking hazard.

You can visit www.cpsc.gov for more information on these and other recalls and safety news announced by CPSC. Until next time, stay safe.

End.