CPSC Warns Of Fatal Electric Shock Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 26) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers that some 200,000 household "trouble lights" or "mechanic's lights" sold in the past year pose an imminent danger of serious or fatal electric shock.

Consumers should immediately cease use of the product, taking extreme care not to touch any metal parts when disconnecting the light from the electrical outlet.

The light was manufactured by A. K. Electric Corporation, Brooklyn, New York. It has been distributed by several firms and sold by stores across the country, including Woolco Department Stores, Zayre, Korvettes, Food Fair, and J. J. Newberry.

The trouble light retails for about $1.50.

The potentially dangerous "trouble light" bears no brand name, label, or other distinguishing marks. Its appearance is similar to many other mechanics' lights. Consumers who are uncertain whether they own a potentially hazardous light should immediately discontinue use of the product and check with the store where it was purchased to identify the manufacturer.

The product consists of either a 5, 10, or 20-foot flexible cord with a male plug at one end and a light socket assembly at the opposite end. The light bulb is enclosed by a metal case and hinged wire guard with a hook at the top. The socket assembly Contains an on-off switch together with a double female receptacle subassembly. The insulating cover for the socket assembly serves as a handle for the unit and is made of exceptionally soft, flexible plastic.

If the handle is grasped in a normal manner, the user's hand or fingers may, because of the soft, flexible plastic cover, contact the metal of the receptacles, creating a serious potential for electric shock.

This warning is being issued because it is the view of the Commission that the "trouble light" in question is imminently hazardous and presents an imminent and unreasonable risk of death or severe personal injury to the public.

A CPSC spokesman said the Commission has investigated a fatal electric shock in Florida which was believed to have been caused by this model "trouble light."

Consumers who are uncertain whether they own a potentially hazardous light should immediately discontinue use of the product and check with the store where it was purchased to identify the manufacturer.

A CPSC spokesman said the Commission has investigated a fatal electric shock in Florida which was believed to have been caused by this model "trouble light."