Buckyballs High Powered Magnets Sets Recalled by Maxfield and Oberton Due to Violation of Federal Toy Standard
CPSC recall 10251 · announced May 27, 2010 · Maxfield And Oberton · 175,000 units affected
The product
This recall involves the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+". The set contains 216 powerful rare earth magnets. It is intended to build unlimited shapes and patterns. Since March 2010, Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets were labeled "Keep Away From All Children" and are not being recalled.
The hazard
The high powered magnets sets were labeled "Ages 13+" and do not meet the mandatory toy standard F963-08 (effective August 17, 2009) which requires that such powerful magnets are not sold for children under 14. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should take the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+" away from children under 14 immediately and contact Maxfield and Oberton for instructions on receiving a refund upon return of a complete set of magnets.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): The firm has received two reports of children swallowing one or more magnets. No injuries were reported.
Sold at: The recalled magnets were sold at a variety of stores, including stores selling children's toys, stationery and office supplies and various online sites from March 2009 through March 2010.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Maxfield and Oberton at (888) 847-8716 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm's website at www.maxfieldandobertonsafety.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.