Product recall: Extension cords

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Howard Berger Co. Inc., of Brooklyn, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 17,500 power strips and about 10,000 extension cords.

The power strips have undersized wires, lack over-current protection and grounding, and the plastic case is flammable. The extension cords have undersized wires and lack over-current protection. Both the power strips and the extension cords can overheat, presenting electrocution, shock and fire hazards. No injuries have been reported.

The power strips have a 2-prong plug with a plastic base containing 6 outlets and are not labeled. The extension cords are about 6 feet long with a 2-prong plug and are not labeled. The extension cords sold for less than $1 and the power strips sold for about $2. Both were made in China. Discount stores in the eastern United States and Puerto Rico sold these products from September 1998 to September 2000.

Consumers should stop using these products immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For information, call Howard Berger Co. Inc. at (800) 221-6895 between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.