500,000 Black And Decker Grass/Weed String Trimmers Recalled

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Black and Decker (U.S.) Inc., Towson, Maryland has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 500,000 of its Model 82209 (Type 1 and 2) and Model 82210 (Type 1 and 2) Bump-Feed Grass/Weed String Trimmers.

Due to improper assembly, the wiring in some of these units may be cut by the end of the handle tube, resulting in an electric shock hazard. This hazard can occur while the units are being operated or when they are simply plugged in but not in use.

Four consumers were reportedly shocked in separate incidents in 1986 and 1987, when they grabbed the metal handle tube of their string trimmers. Though none of these incidents were fatal, the Commission staff believes that a defective trimmer would present a severe electric shock or an electrocution hazard.

These Black and Decker brand string trimmers have been sold since October, 1985 by a variety of retailers for about $24.00 to $29.00. The affected trimmers can be identified by a label decal located near the top of the handle, which states "No. 82209 Grass/Weed Trimmer, Type 1 or Type 2" or "No. 82210 Grass/Weed Trimmer, Type 1 or Type 2" and "Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., Easton, MD 21601 USA". Also, the motor housings of the 82209 and 82210 units are labeled 9" cut and 10" cut, respectively.

Owners who identify their heater as recalled should immediately discontinue use and return it to the nearest True Value Hardware store for a full refund. Owners who are unable to return their heater should contact the nearest True Value Hardware store for further instructions.

To report an unsafe consumer product or to receive safety information, consumers may call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.

Owners who identify their heater as recalled should immediately discontinue use and return it to the nearest True Value Hardware store for a full refund. Owners who are unable to return their heater should contact the nearest True Value Hardware store for further instructions.

Four consumers were reportedly shocked in separate incidents in 1986 and 1987, when they grabbed the metal handle tube of their string trimmers. Though none of these incidents were fatal, the Commission staff believes that a defective trimmer would present a severe electric shock or an electrocution hazard.