Fluorescent Lights Recalled

WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 24) -- The American Electric Corporation, of Culver City, California, today voluntarily issued a second bulletin recalling more than 20,000 "Brite Bar" fluorescent light fixtures because of a possible electrical fire hazard. This announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The firm had been advised by one of its two power cord suppliers that the power cord could create a risk of fire if damaged, altered or used in a manner contrary to the instructions enclosed with the unit.

Since the company's first recall announcement (in April, 1978) about 40,000 of approximately 63,800 lights manufactured with the potentially defective cord have been retrieved, primarily from distributors and dealers. However, the firm and the Commission believe that additional notice will facilitate the recovery of many of those lights still in use.

The product under recall is the model 9500 "Brite Bar" slim-line, fluorescent light fixture. It is 25 inches long and includes a six-foot cord which is stamped (in red) at intervals with the warning, "Caution: Do not cut or coil."

Model 9500 Fixtures Which Do Not Display This Warning On The Cord Are Equipped With A New Cord Free From The Defect And Are Not Being Recalled.

Safety tests conducted by CPSC engineers have revealed a design defect in the power cord, which if coiled or folded during use, may cause the insulation to melt, exposing wires which could create a fire hazard.

The Commission has received reports of two instances in which the cord allegedly started fires in consumers' homes. There have been no reported injuries.

The lights being recalled were manufactured from September through December, 1977, were marketed in 28 states (list of states attached) and sold at retail for about $10.

Consumers should immediately stop using these lights and return them for a free replacement or full refund (including postage costs) to American Electric Corporation, 9937 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, California, 90230; Attention: June Polk, Consumer Relations Manager.

Anyone who wants a refund instead of a new light must also include proof-of-purchase indicating the retail price paid for the product.

To verify the model number on these fixtures, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.

States Which Marketed "Brite Bar" Lights

Consumers should immediately stop using these lights and return them for a free replacement or full refund (including postage costs) to American Electric Corporation, 9937 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, California, 90230; Attention: June Polk, Consumer Relations Manager.

Anyone who wants a refund instead of a new light must also include proof-of-purchase indicating the retail price paid for the product.

The Commission has received reports of two instances in which the cord allegedly started fires in consumers' homes. There have been no reported injuries.