CPSC, MBR Industries Inc. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), MBR Industries Inc. of Miami, Fla., is recalling about 2,970 power strip surge protectors. The surge protectors have undersized and loose wires, loose connections, and improper grounding, which present fire, shock, and electrocution hazards.

CPSC and MBR are not aware of any injuries involving these surge protectors. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The surge protector has six black outlets. There is no labeling on the surge protector or the electrical cord, but it is made of a beige-colored metal with a red power switch and a black reset button. The electrical cord is black. The surge protector is packaged in a cardboard box labeled in part, "SURGE PROTECTOR...Surge Suppressor...NC NEW CHAMPION By Pomtrex...ITEM NC-12862...MADE IN CHINA FOR MBR INDUSTRIES INC."

Independent discount, hardware, and variety stores in the East, mostly in Florida and New York, sold the surge protectors from December 1996 through February 1997 for about $4.

Consumers should stop using the recalled surge protectors immediately and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call MBR at (800) 325-0015.