Westminster Inc. Recalls Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys Due to Risk of Fire

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: "Thunder Wolf" Remote Controlled Indoor Helicopters

Units: About 102,000

Importer/Distributor: Westminster Inc., of Atlanta, Ga.

Hazard: The rechargeable battery inside the helicopter can overheat. This can result in the helicopter's body melting, as well as a risk of fire or burns to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Westminster Inc. has received seven reports of overheating and/or melting of the helicopter, including one report of flames and two reports of minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The "Thunder Wolf" remote-controlled indoor helicopter is made of foam and plastic, and measures about 7 inches by 3 inches. "TW0996" is printed on the tail of the helicopter and was sold in multiple accent colors. The helicopter comes with a controller and a separate charger. Only helicopters that do not have "Made in China" stamped on the underside of the helicopter are subject to the recall.

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from June 2007 through December 2007 for about $20.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop playing with the recalled helicopters and contact Westminster Inc. for a refund. Retailers will not accept returns or provide a refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Westminster Inc. at (800) 618-0023 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET Friday; visit the company's Web site at www.thunderwolfhelicopter.com; or send an e-mail to info@thunderwolfhelicopter.com