Black & Decker Recalls Trimmers/Edgers Due to Laceration Hazard from Projectiles
CPSC recall 07248 · announced July 20, 2007 · Black & Decker (u.s.) · 202,000 units affected
The product
The Black & Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmers/Edgers are electric-powered. Trimmer/edgers with date codes 200546 through 200645 (representing manufacture dates of November 14, 2005 through November 6, 2006) are included in this recall. The date code is located on the underside of the trimmer/edger's handle. Only trimmers with black spools caps are included in the recall. Those with orange spool caps are not included in the recall.
The hazard
The trimmer/edger's spool, spool cap and pieces of trimmer string can come loose during use and become airborne projectiles, posing a laceration hazard to the user as well as bystanders.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using the string trimmers/edgers immediately and contact Black & Decker for a free repair kit.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Black & Decker has received 707 reports of incidents, including 58 reports of injuries. Serious injuries included cuts to two consumers' legs, that required medical attention. Minor injuries included bruises, lacerations, and facial injuries such as a welt and broken skin over a consumer's eye. There were also reports of property damage, including two broken windows.
Sold at: Major home center and hardware stores nationwide from November 2005 through January 2007 for about $70.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Black & Decker at (888) 742-9158 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.blackanddecker.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.