Howard Berger Recalls Extension Cords and Power Strips Due to Fire Hazard

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 products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Indoor and Outdoor Extension Cords and Power Strips        Units: About 12,000

Manufacturer: Howard Berger Co. Inc., of Cranbury, N.J.

Hazard: The extension cords and power strips have inadequate coating material around the cords and copper conductors that are smaller than required, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves Brightway heavy duty outdoor extension cords and Brightway indoor household extension cords and power strips. Model numbers involved in the recall are R2600 through R2615 (outdoor extension cords), EE6 through EE20 (indoor extension cords) and MP6DG (power strips). “Brightway” is printed on the cords. Model numbers are printed on the product’s packaging.

Sold at: Hardware and discount stores nationwide from August 2009 through October 2009 for between $1 and $20.  Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the extension cords and power strips and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Howard Berger at (800) 221-6895 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, visit the firm’s Web site at www.hberger.com. Consumers can also email the firm at robertwinterstein@hberger.com