CPSC, AMF Bowling Products Announce Recall to Repair or Replace Bowling Ball Returns

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), AMF Bowling Products of Mechanicsville, Va., is announcing a program to repair or replace Sure-Pik bowling ball returns. Consumers' fingers can become entrapped and injured in the ball return's belt.

CPSC and AMF have received 14 reports of children's fingers becoming entrapped in these ball returns. Injuries range from bruises and lacerations, to partial amputations and fractures.

Sure-Pik ball returns were manufactured by AMF Inc. between 1973 and 1980 and are in approximately 238 bowling establishments, including military installations, nationwide. Sure-Pik is written on the side of the ball returns.

For AMF-owned establishments, AMF will install plastic guards on either side of the Sure-Pik ball returns to raise the sides around the moving belt. Large warning labels will be placed on the guards. These labels are colorful pictographs warning children to keep their hands and fingers out of the ball return.

For non-AMF-owned establishments, AMF will offer each owner the option of either obtaining the repair kit at cost, plus shipping and handling, or receiving a trade-in allowance of $900 toward the purchase of a new AMF C-90 ball return. AMF also will make special lease financing available for qualified owners.

For all establishments using Sure-Pik ball returns, AMF will provide, free of charge, warning labels and a safety pamphlet on children's bowling.

Owners of bowling establishments using Sure-Pik ball returns should contact AMF at (800) 342-5263 for information on participating in this recall program.

Consumers should look for the plastic guards and warning labels on all Sure-Pik ball returns. If consumers don't see this, they should contact the establishment's manager.