CPSC, Novi Kids Announce Recall of Halloween Bounce Balls

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Novi Kids Inc. of San Diego, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 40,000 packages of Halloween Bounce Balls sold exclusively at Target stores. The balls present a serious choking hazard to young children, which can result in death.

A sticker on the package suggests the balls are "GREAT for FAVORS and TRICK or TREATS!" If used as Halloween treats, the balls could be given to children under 3 years old. Small balls marketed to young children are banned by the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.

CPSC and Novi Kids Inc. are not aware of any deaths or injuries involving this toy. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The Bounce Balls are collections of eight multicolored rubber balls that measure 1 inch in diameter. They are packaged in a clear plastic tray with a cardboard backing. The package backing also is multicolored, and contains various Halloween images, including jack-o'-lanterns and ghosts.

Target stores nationwide sold the packages of balls beginning October 4, 1997, for about $2.

Consumers should take these balls away from young children immediately, and return them to the Target store where purchased for a refund. For more information, consumers should call Novi Kids Inc. collect at (619) 282-6692 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. PST Monday through Friday, or write to the company at 10222 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, CA 92108.