Following manufacturer, CPSC recalls grill that melted in CU tests

Four days after Onward Manufacturing of Canada announced a recall of three models of gas grills after the firebox of two samples melted in tests conducted by Consumer Reports, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission followed suit today with its own recall. In the recall notice, the CPSC said the recall involved 4,800 Signet, Sovereign and Sovereign XL series gas grills.

Consumer Reports encountered the problem in a routine test to determine how well a grill handles flare ups from fatty foods. In the tests, a Broil King Signet 90's firebox melted, dripping molten metal onto the area beneath the grill. We subsequently tested two other samples of this grill: The firebox of one melted and that of the other grill had begun to crack and deform by the end of the test. Because we believe that the Broil King Signet 90 is dangerous and poses a serious safety risk, we judged it Not Acceptable.

Our earlier report on the recall details our testing, includes a video, and outlines the steps that Onward is taking to correct the problem.

Manufacturer recalls grill found faulty in CU tests

Onward Manufacturing of Canada Wednesday recalled three models of gas grills after the firebox of two samples of the Broil King Signet 90 melted in tests conducted by Consumer Reports.  The company's recall, which is expected to be followed shortly by an announcement from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, involves the Signet, Sovereign and Sovereign XL grills with model numbers starting with 986, 987 and 988. The serial numbers start with X, Y and Z.

In our routine test to determine how well a grill handles flare ups from fatty foods, a Broil King Signet 90's firebox melted, dripping molten metal onto the area beneath the grill, just missing the hand of one tester who was turning off the gas to the grill. (The space beneath the grill is where the propane tank is stored.) We subsequently tested two other samples of this grill: The firebox of one melted and that of the other grill had begun to crack and deform by the end of the test. Because we believe that the Broil King Signet 90 is dangerous and poses a serious safety risk, we have judged it Not Acceptable.

We reported our findings to the company that makes the grill, Onward Manufacturing, the CPSC and Health Canada, a government safety agency in that country.

Onward is offering owners of the affected grills a baffle. On its Web site it says: "A baffle has been designed which reduces flare-ups caused by grease and protects the cookbox from excessive heat should a grease fire occur." Owners can get the baffle by registering at the company's Web site  or by calling (866) 434-7455. A video posted with the recall notice shows owners how to install the baffle.

The model and serial numbers are located on the gas caution sticker, which is either on the bottom shelf near the wheels or on the rear cart support bar on the back of the grill.

We applaud Onward Manufacturing and the CPSC for the speed with which they responded.  Now that a retrofit kit is available, we hope to test it and report soon on how effective it is in addressing this serious safety problem.

Safety alert: Broil King Signet 90 judged 'Not Acceptable'

Most dangers with gas grills are obvious. Our own analysis of data collected by the Consumer Product Safety Commission didn’t reveal many surprises. Almost all of the estimated 11,000 grill injuries treated in hospitals each year are due to burns of the hands, arms and face. About a dozen people are killed each year. Young children are particularly at risk. The U.S Fire Administration  reports that in 2005 gas grills caused approximately 7,200 home-related fires. Grill fires go up during warm-weather months, and have also climbed with the increasing popularity of gas grills. None of this is unexpected.

What is surprising is the type of failure Consumer Reports found with a Broil King grill we tested for our June 2008 issue.  In one of our routine tests to determine how well each grill handles flare ups from fatty foods, the firebox of the Broil King Signet 90 986784LP melted. The result: molten metal dripped down from the firebox onto the area beneath the grill, just missing one tester’s hand. The space beneath the grill is where the propane tank is stored. We subsequently tested two other samples of this grill: in one the firebox again melted and in the other the firebox had begun to crack and deform by the end of the test.

Because we believe that the Broil King Signet 90 is dangerous and poses a serious safety risk, we judged it “Not Acceptable.” We reported our findings to the company that makes the grill, Onward Manufacturing of Canada, the  Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, a government safety agency in that country. Onward told us that they are developing a retrofit kit to resolve this problem and will soon make it available to owners and Onward dealers. We hope to test the kit when it becomes available. (For more information on the retrofit kit contact 866-434-7455, or send an e-mail to kit@omcbbq.com.)

We’ve been testing gas grills for more than 30 years and have never before seen this type of failure. We do not know why the grill deformed and melted. Our flare-up test for a mid-sized grill such as the Broil King Signet 90 involves putting six steaks on the grill and cooking them with the lid down. We do not believe this test to be particularly severe and it is intended to mimic how the grill is likely to be used by consumers. Our article notes that the grill carries two safety certification marks issued by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), indicating that it complies with applicable safety standards. But those safety standards don’t involve grilling real food. We will lobby CSA to have those standards re-examined and strengthened in the near future.

If you’ve experienced a melting firebox or any other safety hazard with your gas grill, please let us know. Also be sure to report the problem to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.—Don Mays

Recall of LawnBott mower prompted by CU tests

The May 2008 issue of Consumer Reports contains a report of our tests on lawn mowers, including one that we judged “Not Acceptable.”  The LawnBott LB3200 Evolution, a robotic mower that scoots around the yard without an operator, poses a serious safety risk, in our judgment.  When the 25-pound LawnBott was lifted off the ground, its blades kept spinning for nearly four seconds—long enough to cause serious harm to an adult or curious child.  If lifted less than about 45 degrees, the spinning blades wouldn’t shut off at all.  After our tests, we reported our finding to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) as well as to the U.S. distributor for this Italian-made machine, hoping that they would address this safety issue before people got seriously hurt. 

Today, our hopes were realized.  The CPSC has just announced a recall of four LawnBott robotic mowers with model numbers LB2000, LB2100, LB3000, and LB3200, the model we tested.  All models were manufactured by Zucchetti Centro Sistemi S.p.A., of Italy.

The mowers have a docking station for recharging and a shiny plastic cover sold in red, green or blue. ”Evolution” or “Deluxe” is printed on the side of the mower. They were sold nationwide by Kyodo America dealers from January 2006 through December 2007 for between $1,750 and $2,750.

According to the recall notice, the U.S. importer, Kyodo America Industries, of Lawrenceville, GA, has received one report of a consumer lifting the mower from the ground and suffering minor lacerations from the moving blade.

Consumers should stop using the recalled LawnBott mowers immediately and contact Kyodo America to register their lawn mowers for repairs that will not be ready until the end of June.  Although most recalls have a remedy immediately available, in this case the CPSC said it was important to warn consumers about the hazard now while the fix is still in the works.  For more information, contact Kyodo America at (877) 465-9636 or visit the firm’s web site at www.lawnbott.com. —Don Mays

Ladder and heater recalls underline dangers

Two recalls announced this week by the Consumer Product Safety Commission underscore some longstanding safety concerns we've had about two very different products: ladders and oscillating heaters. Although the number of units involved in each recall was relatively small, they're an indication of the hazards of these products—and a reminder that it's prudent to conduct your own safety inspection of these items even if you own ones that haven't been recalled.

The CPSC recalled 152,000 "Aloha Breeze" portable electric heaters because they can overheat, melt plastic parts, and pose a fire hazard. There have been 29 reports of the heaters melting, smoking, or catching fire, including 18 reports of property damage and one report of minor burns to a consumer's hands and feet.

The heater was made in China and sold at Wal-Mart and small retail chain stores nationwide from August 2006 through November 2007 for between $35 and $45. The CPSC advises consumers to immediately stop using the recalled heaters and contact Aloha Housewares at 1-800-295-4448 to receive a free replacement product.

It was just recently that we expressed concerns about oscillating heaters—those that move from side to side. The problem: the current safety standard for oscillating heaters may not be strong enough. Although there's an effort underway to revise and strengthen the standard, we encourage you to be vigilant; use the oscillating mode only when necessary, and inspect the cord for fraying or weakness, especially where it enters the unit.

The CPSC also recalled 25,000 fiberglass extension ladders due to fall hazards. The extension or "fly" section of the "Louisville/Davidson" and "Michigan" brand ladders can fail to lock, posing a fall hazard to consumers. The recall involves only models made from September 2007 through October 2007 that were sold at industrial supply stores and home centers nationwide through December 2007 for $130 to $760. The date code can be found on the left side rail. The commission advises consumers to immediately stop using the ladder and contact Louisville Ladder for instructions on inspecting the ladder and receiving a free repair kit, if necessary. Call (800) 660-4356 or go to the firm's Web site, www.louisvilleladder.com.

About 164,000 ladder-related emergency-room visits and 150 deaths are reported each year by the CPSC. Log on to Consumer Reports Online to learn how to use a ladder safely before taking that next step.

Lightweight batteries in remote-controlled aircraft may pose a fire hazard

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a warning about an emerging fire hazard from the battery technology used with remote-controlled helicopters and airplanes.

In the past four months, the agency has received 26 reports of remote-controlled helicopters igniting while being charged and one report of a helicopter igniting while in flight. Minor burns and property damage were reported.

The CPSC, in an alert issued last week, said that it was concerned about the toys' rechargeable lithium batteries (lithium-ion or lithium polymer). The batteries are favored for toys because they are lighter but they pack a lot of power in a small package “so consumers should use caution when charging and handling them,” the agency said. “Overcharging them can result in overheating, fire and/or explosion.”

CPSC spokeswoman Julie Vallese added that the agency is investigating to see whether this problem is specific to remote-controlled helicopters and airplanes or is a bigger issue affecting other products as well.

Meanwhile, the agency issued a recall for one specific remote-controlled toy, the Fun2Fly Microcopter helicopter made in China, imported by Soft Air USA Inc. and sold in sporting good stores and other retailers from May 2006 through December 2007. The agency said that the rechargeable battery inside the helicopter may catch fire during charging, igniting the helicopter and nearby combustible materials. Soft Air USA has received six reports of helicopters igniting, including one minor injury. Consumers are advised to immediately stop using the recalled toy and return it to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund.

The CPSC recommends that all users of remote-controlled toys containing rechargeable lithium batteries take the following safety precautions:

• Do not leave a toy unattended while charging it.
• Have adults do the battery charging.
• Charge the toy on a non-flammable surface and keep it away from flammable items.
• Turn off the charger when the toy’s battery is charged and always unplug it from the toy.
• Disconnect the AC wall chargers from outlets while not in use.
• If the toy has been damaged, immediately stop using it, unplug it and safely remove the toy from flammable materials.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging the toy and do not charge the toy longer than recommended.

More skiiers and boarders risk helmet hair to avoid head injuries

If you’ve hit the slopes lately, you may have noticed a lot more skiers and snowboarders wearing helmets. Your eyes weren’t deceiving you. New data from the National Ski Areas Association show that 40 percent of skiers and snowboarders wore helmets last skiing season. That’s up from 25 percent helmet usage in the 2002-2003 skiing season.

Pardon the pun, but to us—and increasingly to the snow-sport industry—wearing a helmet is a no-brainer. It's an important piece of equipment that helps prevent head injuries. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 6,326 head injuries from snowboarding in 2006 and 4,922 from skiing.

Those numbers help explain why the industry has been aggressively promoting the use of helmets. This week, for example, a number of resorts across the country are offering discounts and holding all sorts of contests to promote helmet usage as part of National Safety Awareness Week.  Consider Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont where anyone who purchased a new helmet at the resort’s shop received a coupon for a half-price full-day lift ticket. And Okemo was also holding a contest for the best helmet head: “ that cool, disheveled look of matted hair that happens when a skier or snowboarder removes his helmet after a great day on the slopes.” The prize: two complimentary lift tickets.

If you haven’t hit the slopes yet this season, consider visiting lidsonkids.org, NSAA’s fun and informative Web site, with helpful tips for both parents and kids on how to select proper helmets.  As the site advises:  “The most important consideration when purchasing a helmet is the fit. A helmet is not a piece of equipment that you want to purchase too small or too large to grow into.” When shopping for a helmet, bring along your goggles, or borrow a pair that matches your own from the shop and look for a helmet that conforms to a ski/snowboard helmet standard (Common European Norm, American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and/or Snell.) Ask an experienced ski shop associate to assist you to identify the best brand for your head shape and to confirm a proper fit.  Consumer Reports has also written about and rated ski helmets.

NSAA’s latest data shows that it’s not just kids who need helmet tips. In fact, kids have the highest usage—64 percent of children nine and under wear helmets. It’s the 18 to 24 year olds, a group in which only 26 percent wear helmets, that need some reminding. We hope you’ll do that—and often.

Santa's safety list

The very nature of this blog means that most of the time, we are writing about things not to buy—the latest recalled toy or unsafe gadget. So today, we want to take a different approach and give you some ideas of things you could buy as gifts to help your loved ones and friends stay safe. Consider treating yourself as well.

For the car owner

• A tire pressure gauge;
• A roadside emergency kit with flares and a compact thermal blanket (if you live in a cold climate) in case the car breaks down;
• A backup system (top photo) to see what's behind the car, so you don't back over anything or anyone in that troublesome blind spot.

For the homeowner or renter

• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors;
• Fire extinguishers—there are some stylish ones on the market;
• Metal ash bin and heavy gloves for the fireplace or wood stove;
• A fully-stocked first aid kit;
• Flashlight and batteries or, better still a hand-cranked radio and flashlight so you don't need to search for batteries or worry that they will run out;
• UL or ETL listed power strips and extension cords.

For the handyman or do-it-yourself woman

• A good, sturdy Type 1A step ladder that opens and closes easily;
• Hearing protectors;
• Safety glasses;
• Steel-toe work shoes.   

For the host or hostess

• An instant-read meat thermometer to know if your meat or poultry dishes are cooked to a safe temperature;
• Different colored cutting boards—one for poultry and meat, another for fruit and vegetables;
• LED candles that look like real candles to decorate your home without worries about fires.

For grandma or grandpa

• A new tub mat to replace the worn-out one that has lost its sticking power;
• A snug-fitting robe; styles with loose sleeves can catch fire easily;
• Socks or slippers with rubber anti-slip grips on the soles;
• Safety grips you can add to your shoes or boots to make walking on ice less treacherous.

For the active child or adult

• An updated, certified life jacket to replace the 30-year-old version at the summer cabin;
• A new—and better fitting—helmet for the cyclist, skier or snowboarder;
• A snug helmet and protective pads for the rollerblader, skateboarder or scooter rider;
• A reflective vest for the runner or walker.

For everyone
There are special tools available for anyone who has to open a gift that's been wrapped in a plastic shell to make the job easier—and safer.

A gentle reminder on generators

The wicked storms battering the Central U.S. and leaving many residents without power prompt us to remind readers about the dangers of improper use of portable generators. Last winter we reported the disturbing statistic that in the last three months of 2006, there were at least 32 deaths related to carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators. Such news caused the Consumer Product Safety Commission to sound the alarm and require new labels on generators that say, in part, “using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.”

According to the CPSC, a single portable generator can release about as much carbon monoxide as the exhaust of 100 idling cars. So it's no wonder that consumers can be killed quickly if the devices are used indoors or too close to homes or in other enclosed spaces.

Using a portable generator can help you weather a storm if, and only if, you use it safely. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning by always running your generator outdoors and at least 15 feet away from the house. Never run it in the basement or garage or other enclosed space.
• Install a transfer switch to connect the unit to your home's wiring system. Never connect a generator directly to your home.
• Reduce fire risk by turning off a gasoline-powered generator before refueling.
• Store gasoline in an ANSI-approved container and in a cool, well-ventilated area.

If you are in the market for a generator, check out our Ratings (for subscribers) and recommendations.

ATV accidents continue to climb

Sometimes we sound like a broken record — usually when a product's hazards are so serious and so persistent that we have no choice but to keep writing about them. And so here we are again talking about all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), after a new study by the West Virginia University Injury Control Research Center offered fresh evidence of their dangers.

According to a five-year study comparing the prevalence of ATV and bicycle crashes from 2000 through 2004, hospitalizations from ATV incidents are growing at a markedly higher rate than those caused by bicycle injuries even though there are far more bicycle owners (100 million compared to 7 million ATV owners). And although there are still significantly more bike incidents than ATV mishaps, the numbers are narrowing, particularly for riders 16 and older (labeled as adults in the study).
    Here are some findings from the study to consider:

• The estimated number of deaths associated with ATVs has risen nearly 180 percent from 276 deaths in 1995 to 767 in 2004, the most recent year that fatality data was available from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
• Estimated non-fatal injuries requiring a trip to the emergency room rose more than 150 percent from 53,600 visits in 1996 to 136,700 visits in 2005.
• Children under 16 years of age accounted for about one-quarter of the deaths and one-third of the injuries.    
• Among children, girls accounted for 26 percent of hospitalizations for ATV injuries and 22 percent of bike injuries. Among adults, females accounted for 17 percent of ATV hospitalizations and 22 percent of  bicycle injury hospitalizations.
• The average cost of each ATV-related hospitalization was $21,304 compared to $16,478 for bicycle-related hospitalizations.

The study was funded by the Concerned Families for ATV Safety and the Arabella Legacy Fund, a private charitable organization that also supports the Responsible Trails Alliance. Both groups have been pushing for greater federal regulation of ATVs. The study’s author, James Helmkamp, director of the  West Virginia University Injury Control Research Center, said that he conducted the research independent of the funding. The study’s intent, he said, "was to raise awareness and encourage more federal participation in the regulation of ATVs, particularly among children."

As anyone who has followed this issue knows, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has been studying ATVs for years. And it is still studying ATVs. CPSC spokeswoman Julie Vallese said that the staff is scheduled to summarize its most recent findings in December.

We eagerly await those findings and the agency’s next step. We also await  further commission action on the Kazuma Meerkat 50 Youth ATV. Last summer, the  CPSC issued a warning about that ATV noting it lacked front brakes, had no parking brake and could be started in gear. The agency said it couldn’t recall the bike because it lacked a quorum and therefore couldn’t recall any product unless the company cooperated. But Congress reinstated the CPSC’s quorum in August.  So far, however, there’s been no official recall of the Meerkat 50.

Related reading: Recent ATV recalls
ATVs Recalled By KTM North America Due to Brake Failure
Ohalee Inc. Recalls Youth All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Mechanical Hazards
ATVs Recalled by Polaris Industries Inc. Due to Fire Hazard
Polaris Recalls Select Hawkeye Model ATVs for Steering Post Failure Hazard
Polaris Recalls Select Hawkeye Model ATVs due to Loss of Control Hazard; Three Crashes Reported
Stateside Powersports Recalls to Repair 90cc Youth Model ATVs
Arctic Cat Recalls Model Year 2007 90cc Youth Model ATVs
Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA Recalls ATV for Loss of Steering Control Hazard

Recall reminders: Curious George dolls added to the list

Curious George dolls have been added to what has been a dizzying week of toy recalls. While the 175,000 Curious George dolls sold with story books were recalled because of lead paint, two of the week's largest recalls, Aqua Dots and a Laugh & Learn kitchen toy, were recalled for other hazards. Some of the 4.2 million Aqua Dots craft kits were found to be contaminated with a chemical related to GHB, the banned date rape drug, which caused children to become comatose. And the Fisher-Price kitchens were recalled after several small children choked or gagged on small pieces that broke off. A third non-lead related action involved 31,000 slingshot pool toys recalled after five children cut their hands using them.

The Curious George recall involves five plush dolls — four with plastic faces and one with a soft face — in which the face, the hat or both are covered with paint containing lead. Several soft-face versions of the doll, made by Marvel Toys, are not affected by the recall. On its Web site, Toys 'R' Us, one of the retailers that sold the doll, shows which dolls are and are not affected.

Made in China, the dolls were sold at toy and discount department stores nationwide from December 2005 through August 2007 for about $15. Marvel Toys is offering consumers a full refund and can be contacted at (800) 352-2064 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.regcen.com/curiousgeorge

Also recalled this week because of lead were collectible tin toys including not only a Winnie-the-Pooh pail and top but a robot, wind-up duck family and a music box. Toy cars were recalled by two different companies and a pair of children's sunglasses is also on the list. Here is a full list of this week's toy recalls.

• Marvel Toys Curious George plush dolls (175,000)
• Dollar General Children’s fashion sunglasses (51,000)
• Aqua Dots craft kits (4.2 million)
• Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn kitchen toy (155,000)
• Swimways “Skippy” pool toys (31,000)
• Dollar General pull-back action toy cars (380,000)
• International Sourcing dragster and funny cars (7,500)
• Northern Tool & Equipment “Big Red” wagons (7,200)
• Schylling “Robot 2000” collectible tin robot (2,600)
• Schylling tin pails and spinning tops (3,600 plus 66,000 recalled earlier)
• Schylling duck family collectible wind-up toy (3,500)
• Schylling Dizzy Ducks music box (1,300)

Please note: Crib recall
Also recalled this week, were 8,900 Wendy Bellissimo Collection convertible cribs made by Bassettbaby, of Bassett, Va. The bolts connecting the top corners of the crib can come loose, creating a gap and posing a serious entrapment and strangulation hazard. Bassettbaby has received 85 reports of bolts loosening, including one report of a 13 month-old child's hand becoming entrapped between the railings. The cribs were sold at Babies 'R' Us stores nationwide from July 2005 through October 2007 for about $500. Consumers should stop using the cribs immediately and contact Bassettbaby for a free repair kit at (888) 897-4689 between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET daily, or visit the firm's Web site at www.bassettbaby.com.

Bike-related injuries common cause of trip to ER

Bikes and kids are a natural and winning combination. But all too often, that combination can result in injuries, as some of us know all too well.

Of all recreational sports, bicycle-related injuries are the leading cause of emergency room visits for children. Now, a new study shows just how significant those injuries may be when a child or adolescent has to be hospitalized from a bike accident.

According to the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, about 10,700 children and adolescents, ages 20 and younger, were hospitalized for bicycle-related injuries in the U.S. in 2003, the most recent year for which these statistics are available. The average length of stay was three days and the cost of inpatient hospital care totaled nearly $200 million.  Nearly three quarters of the patients were male and almost all lived in urban areas. The rate of injury was greatest for boys ages 10 to 13. The study was published in the October issue of Injury Prevention.

That's not too surprising to some of us. Just listen to Don Mays, who contributes to this blog, tell his tale of delivering newspapers when he was about 11. "My pant leg got caught in the chain. I took a hard fall and knocked myself out. I had a severe concussion and wound up spending two days in the hospital." Of course, that was before the time when bike helmets were common. Today, he says, "I wouldn't dare venture out without a helmet." Nor would his 9-year-old daughter who just survived a bad tumble unhurt thanks to her helmet. The helmet cracked but she emerged without a scratch.

Perhaps the most significant finding in the recent study was the fact that motor vehicles were involved in approximately 30 percent of bicycle-related hospitalizations. And not surprisingly, motor vehicle accidents increased with the age of the patient. Motor vehicle involvement was as low as 20 percent in incidents involving children under two and double that for adolescents 18 to 20.

One-third of children hospitalized for bicycle-related injuries were diagnosed with traumatic brain injury. Pediatrician Gary Smith, director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy, said that finding was significant because it suggested that injuries could be reduced if there was greater helmet use. Two lessons, he said, should be taken from this study:

• Given the rate of motor-vehicle related injuries, cities should do more to build and encourage the use of bike paths to avoid mixing bikes with motor traffic.
• Given the number of brain injuries, more attention should be focused on promoting helmet use. “Helmet use across the country is dismal,” Smith said. Pointing to studies showing helmets can reduce brain injuries by 85 percent, Smith said: “There are three things a child can do to prevent an injury when riding a bike: wear a helmet, wear a helmet and wear a helmet.”

Consumer Reports rated bicycle helmets in a recent report and included information to help riders learn how to fit a helmet for maximum protection.

Related reading: Recent recalls
While the study above does not mention bike mishaps caused by faulty parts or poorly assembled bikes, it is good to be aware of safety issues and recalls when you are buying a bike. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recently made a number of recalls of bikes and bike parts.

• Reynolds UL bicycle forks
• Procycle Rocky Mountain-Solo bicycles
• 2007 Huffy “Howler” and “Highland” bicycles
• Formula Brake Oro bicycle disc brakes
• REI Novara Afterburner Trailer bicycles

Second recall of air pump exposes flaws in the tracking of faulty products

We have often expressed concern about the effectiveness of product recalls. We know from sad, past experience that all too often recalled products remain in homes, in garages, and on store shelves. If consumers are not clicking on, reading, watching or listening to the right news at the right time, they may never get the word of a recall that could affect them directly.

We need no further proof of this problem than the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s “re-announcement” recently of a previous recall initially made in January.  The recall involves 11,000 Inflator Air Pumps made by Sportsstuff (the same company that brought you the dangerous Wego Kite Tube that was withdrawn from the market in 2006 after reports of two deaths and dozens of injuries).

The air pumps—sold separately for $50 or as part of Sportstuff’s inflatable water trampoline called Launch Pod for $375—were recalled on January 11 after reports that they could overheat and explode during use.

Unfortunately, since the first recall announcement, 16 additional explosions have been reported with 10 consumers suffering lacerations, including two who required stitches.

This is not the first time that the CPSC has had to re-announce a recall. Two other major recalls this year were also re-announcements of earlier recalls: the Simplicity crib and the Easy Bake oven. Clearly this suggests a problem in the way recalls are announced and publicized.  We've long been in favor of a product registration system that would allow manufacturers to directly contact owners of recalled products as opposed to relying on the media to publicize the recall.  We also think that the CPSC should track and report the consumer response rate for each recall they issue.  A poor response rate should prompt a stronger effort to alert consumers about hazardous products.

As for the air pump, CPSC spokeswoman Julie Vallese says, "It’s quite unfortunate that there were additional incidents when the agency sought to remove the product from the marketplace. We know that there are people who have the products who need to take the message seriously and stop using the pumps." Sportstuff is offering free replacements.

For more information consumers should contact Sportsstuff at (888) 814-8833 or visit www.sportsstuff.com and search on "recall."

The CPSC releases the "Top Five Hidden Home Hazards"

You  know the saying, “Home is where your heart is.” It’s also where there are a host of hidden hazards, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Every year, the commission says, 33.1 million people are injured by consumer products in the home. And many of these injuries come from products that the agency has warned about for years, everyday products such as TV stands, window blinds and magnets.

Determined to reduce these injuries, the commission is releasing its list of the home’s top five hidden hazards. At Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, we’ve written about these hazards before and, like the commission, we'll continue to publicize them in hopes consumers will take action.

MAGNETS
The facts: Since 2005, there has been one death and 86 injuries from magnets and 8 million magnetic toys have been recalled.
The problem: Today’s magnets can be very small and very powerful—so much so that when a child swallows two or more magnets or a magnet and another metal object, the items can attract through intestinal walls and get trapped in place. This can twist or pinch the intestines causing holes, blockages, infection and even death.
The solution: Watch carefully for loose magnets that may fall out of various toys and keep magnets away from children younger than six. Check any magnet toys to see if they’ve been recalled and, if so, stop using such toys immediately.

RECALLED PRODUCTS
The facts: Each year the CPSC recalls about 400 products.
The problem: Many recalled products remain in the home—and may be resold at thrift shops and garage sales. That’s particularly worrisome for many infant and baby products such as cribs and high-chairs that have been recalled for being an entrapment, entanglement or other hazard.
The solution: Check the Web site www.Recalls.gov to see if any products in your home -- or products you are about to buy -- have been recalled. And sign up for free-email notices of future recalls at  the CPSC's Web site.

TIP-OVERS
The facts: An average of 22 deaths and 3,000 injuries occur annually when TV stands, dressers, furniture and ranges tip over and crush young children. It’s a  growing problem, as deaths increased by nearly 50 percent to 31 in 2006.
The problem: Children climb onto, fall against or pull themselves up on television stands, shelves, bookcases, dressers, desks and chests. If the furniture isn’t stable, it can tip over causing head trauma, injury or death. TVs placed improperly on top of furniture are a particular problem and items left on top of the TV or dressers can be particularly enticing to young children.
The solution: Make sure your furniture is stable on its own, and for added security, anchor TV stands, dressers and other pieces to the wall with an anti-tip restraint. Freestanding ranges and stoves should also have anti-tip brackets. And don’t leave toys or other attractive items atop climbable furniture.

WINDOWS AND WINDOW COVERINGS
The facts: An average of 12 deaths occur annually from window cords. And falls from windows cause nine deaths and 3,700 injuries annually  to children.
The problem: Children can strangle on window drapery and blind cords that can form a loop. And children can fall out of windows—screens offer no protection. 
The solution:  Parents should use cordless blinds or keep cords and chains permanently out of reach of children. Consumers should cut looped cords and install a safety tassel at the end of each pull cord or use a tie-down device and install inner cord stays to prevent strangulation. Never place a child’s crib or playpen within reach of a window blind.
     Parents of small children should install window guards or stops in their windows.

POOL AND SPA DRAINS
The facts: There have been 15 injuries and two fatalities reported between 2002 and 2004.
The problem: The suction from a pool drain can be so powerful it can hold an adult under water, but most incidents involve children. A body can become sealed against the drain or hair can be pulled in and tangled. Missing or broken drain covers are a major cause of entrapment incidents.
The solution: Every time you use a pool or spa, inspect it for entrapment hazards. Check to make sure appropriate drain covers are in place and undamaged. Pool and spa owners should consider installing a Safety Vacuum Release System that detects when a drain is blocked and automatically shuts off the pool pump or interrupts the water circulation to prevent entrapment.  Anti-entrapment /anti-entanglement drain covers may also be able to be retrofitted on existing pools.

While we applaud the CPSC for highlighting these safety issues, we also recognize that there are many more hazards that consumers may not be aware of that can endanger their families.  We will continue to use this blog to inform you of the issues you need to know to keep your family safe. 

For more information:
Magnets in toys attract scrutiny from CPSC, Congress

Latest recalls from the CPSC and FDA

Safety alert: furniture fails to meet tip-over standards

Keeping baby safe: Childproofing your home

Window falls a preventable risk to young children

Tragic incident highlights need for pool safety law

A lesson on hedge-trimmer safety you should skip

A few weeks ago, I bought a new power hedge trimmer from my local outdoor power equipment dealer. Of course, I chose a top-rated trimmer from our June 2006 report. What happened at the dealer is a story worth telling.

Stihl, the manufacturer of the gas-powered trimmer I chose, distinguishes itself from its competitors by explaining in its advertising why the company's products aren't sold at Lowe’s or Home Depot. Stihl's ads invite you to go to a Web site to read the company's "10 reasons to pick a Stihl servicing dealer." Reason #5: “We can provide operating and safety demonstrations.” That they did. In fact, they wouldn’t let me out of the shop until they showed me how to operate and “safely” use my new trimmer.

I was sent to a back-room shop for my lesson. I watched in horror as the “trained” technician completed fueling my new trimmer with a lit cigarette dangling from his lips. I guess he skipped the owner’s manual warning that states, “Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame near the fuel.” Fortunately, no fireballs erupted.

While still in the shop, just few feet form his fuel cans, he showed me how to start the trimmer. He didn’t follow the manufacturer’s directions to place the hedge trimmer on firm ground. Instead, he held it in his hands and used the “drop start” method. Once it started, that was it; lesson over.

I lightly scolded him for neglecting to talk about safety precautions. He said, with the cigarette still in his mouth, “Oh yeah, you’re not supposed to hold it in the air when starting. It’s supposed to be on the ground.” “Right," I replied, “and what about eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and so forth?” “Yeah,” he said “I guess you should use safety glasses.”

The fact is he forgot to inform me about many safety precautions that must be heeded to reduce the risk of injury. We provide general safety tips in our June 2006 report.

It wasn’t until I read the owner’s manual that I discovered my new hedge trimmer had a great safety feature — a blade lock that prevents the blades from moving while starting. Unless I read the manual, I wouldn’t have learned about this feature. I don't always read manuals, but this experience punctuated its importance.

I know my experience is anecdotal and may not be representative of what happens at most outdoor power equipment dealers. I also know that it's highly unlikely that I would have gotten any lesson had I bought a different model at a big-box retailer. But I am concerned that safety is often an afterthought on the sales floor, even with products that pose a high risk to the operator. Call me a nerd, but I’ll read the owner’s manual in the future, and even warning labels on the products themselves ... and I will still happily be able to type with all ten fingers.

— Don Mays

Set sail safely this summer

Anchors Away! Yes, it's that time of year — when boating,  deep-water fishing, water skiing and other water sports are so appealing.

But once again, since our mission is safety, we want to remind you that certain basic rules are in order, especially if you don't want to be included in the U.S. Coast Guard's annual boating statistics. In 2005, the latest year for which figures are available, there were nearly 5,000 boating accidents, resulting in 697 fatalities and 3,451 injuries.

So take care:

• Always wear life jackets. According to the Coast Guard, nearly 90 percent of people who drown in boating accidents aren't wearing life jackets. Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets. For children, make sure the jacket is the right size (not too loose) and properly belted. Blow-up water wings, toys, rafts and air mattresses should never be used as life jackets or life preservers.
• Remember, alcohol and boating do not mix. Alcohol was involved in about a third of all boating fatalities in 2004.
• Don't overload your boat with passengers and/or gear.
• Develop a water plan — about where you're going and for how long — and give it to a responsible person who will remain onshore.
• Be alert to local weather conditions and prepare for electrical storms. Head back to shore if skies look threatening or you see or hear a storm.
• Guard against carbon monoxide from the boat engine — both in the boat and in the water. If your boat has a gas engine to generate electricity (to run an air conditioner in a cabin, for instance) make sure there's proper ventilation. And install carbon monoxide detectors in sleeping and a living quarters.
• Discourage anyone from the new and growing sport of "teak surfing," where an individual holds onto the teak swim platform of a vessel while a wake builds, then lets go to body surf the wave created by the boat. The Coast Guard says the teak surfer is directly exposed to the CO in the engine exhust and this could result in a loss of coherent responsnes or even death (it could also expose the surfer to possible propeller injury).   
• If you're the pilot, take a boat safety course. If you're a passenger, make sure the pilot has taken such a course.  The Coast Guard says over 70 percent of the reported fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating safety information.

And if you're water-skiing, take some extra precautionary steps. Here are some tips from Mayo Clinic:

• Know what you're doing — take lessons before you put those skis on.
• Make sure your life jacket fits; the brighter the color, the better.
• Don't ski after dark and avoid heavily traveled boating lanes — or areas reserved for fishing.
• Make sure there are at least two other people in the boat: the driver needs to be paying attention to what's ahead; there should be another person watching you.
• Make sure you all know the hand signals to slow down, speed up and turn around.
• One more thing: don't approach a boat with a running motor. The propellers, needless to say, are dangerous.

See also:

• Safety alert: Carbon monoxide hazards on boats
• Beware carbon-monoxide hazards on the water
• Coast Guard Boating Statistics 2005 (PDF)
• American Academy of Pediatrics: Life Jackets and Life Preservers
• Coast Guard press release on teak surfing

Bill could make pools and spas safer

Last month, a 3-year-old boy from Long Island, NY drowned in his neighbor’s swimming pool. The child snuck out of his house and climbed the neighbor’s 4-foot fence to get into the pool. Like most drownings, his death was silent.

Every year, about 260 children under five drown in swimming pools. An additional 2,725 children are treated annually in emergency rooms for pool submersion injuries. Drowning is second only to motor vehicle accidents as the leading cause of accidental death of children under 14.  

Child drowning is tragic, yet preventable. That's why Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, testified in early June at a Congressional hearing in support of the Pool and Spa Safety Act - H.R. 1721. The House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection heard testimony on four pending safety bills.  

The Pool and Spa Safety Act would provide a $5 million annual grant over the next five years to the CPSC for administering drowning prevention campaigns and encouraging states to enhance pool and spa safety laws. The measure would also require safer drain systems on pools and spas to prevent the powerful suction of drains from entrapping people under water. 

Our testimony applauded the goals of bill but raised concerns that it doesn’t adequately address many of the safety issues involving inflatable pools, which are a growing hazard. We also supported the need for layers of protection to keep pools safe, including non-climbable fences with self-closing and self-latching gates, safety covers for in-ground pools, alarms for doors leading from the house to the pool area, and pool alarms.  

There was no pool alarm in the Long Island pool; if there had been, the 3-year-old boy may have been saved. Although New York State passed a law that went into effect at the end of last year requiring pool alarms for all new swimming pools, it doesn't require retrofitting existing pools (Suffolk County, where last month's accident occurred, is considering a bill that would require alarms on all pools). That's a critical — and possibly life-saving — step that all pool owners should take.

See Also:

• H.R. 1721, Pool and Spa Safety Act
• Consumers Union's testimony (PDF)
• CPSC Public Service Announcement: Toddler Drownings Happen Quickly and Silently
  Text | Audio (MP3) | Video (requires Windows Media Player) 
• Make sure your pool is child-safe this summer
• Keep kids safe around water year-round
• Inflatable pool hazards
• Three pool alarms Not Acceptable
• CPSC Publications (PDFs):
  Swimming Pool Safety Alert
  Safety Barrier Guidelines for Pools
  How to Plan for the Unexpected
  Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards: Making Pools and Spas Safer

This is the third blog entry in a series concerning a Congressional hearing on pending product safety legislation.

Previous entries in this series:

• Product registration cards can save lives
• Gas can safety gets a hearing

Don't cook your goose when eating outdoors

Maybe it's the surroundings, but food seems to taste better when it’s eaten outside. We want your picnics and barbeques to stay delightful, so here are some tips on handling food safely at outdoor repasts from the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Dept. of Agriculture:

• First, as we all learned in preschool, good food safety practices begin with hand-washing. If you won’t have access to water, think ahead and bring soap and a jug of water. If that’s not feasible, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an effective alternative.  
•  Because the bacteria that can cause food poisoning multiply faster at temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees, keep cold food cold and hot food hot in separate insulated carriers. Avoid opening the coolers more than necessary to maintain the temperature. 
• Cold food subject to spoilage should be held at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. To keep the cooler food cold longer, you can pack the meat, poultry, and seafood still slightly frozen and well insulated from other foods to avoid contamination. When you cook it, use a thermometer to ensure that it's reached a safe minimum internal temperature. Beef, veal, and lamb steaks, roasts, and chops can be cooked to 145 degrees. Hamburgers made of ground beef should reach 160 degrees. All cuts of pork should reach 160 degrees . All poultry should reach a minimum of 165 degrees.
• Hot food should be kept hot, at or above 140 degrees. Wrap the hot food well and place in an insulated container. Eat it within two hours of cooking or purchase. 
• Rinse all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running tap water before you pack it. Do that even if the skins and rinds are not eaten, since cutting through the outer layer can contaminate the inner fruit. That includes melons, whose nooks and crannies, we have unfortunately learned, are great hiding places for such uninvited germs as salmonella.
•  Don’t let perishable foods sit out longer than 2 hours — and only one hour if air temperature is hotter than 90 degrees.
• If you’re grilling out, marinate the foods in the refrigerator, not on the counter or outdoors. If the marinade is to be used as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion separately before adding the raw meat, poultry, or seafood. Don’t reuse a marinade that’s been in contact with raw food. Similarly, don’t use the same platter and utensils that previously held the raw meat to serve the cooked foods, unless the platter and utensils have been washed in hot soapy water.
• If you want to partially cook food in the microwave, oven, or stove to reduce grilling time, do so immediately before the food goes on the hot grill.
• Be aware that the grill can brown foods quickly and make them look done, even when they're not, so be sure to check with a food thermometer. 

And one last tip to pass on from one of our own staffers (who admits he should know better): Make sure to clean your grill’s drip pan frequently. He didn’t, and the result was a flaming and dangerous mess.

See also:

• Quiz: Summer safety truths and half-truths
• Safe Food Handling (USDA)
• Barbecue Basics: Tips to Prevent Foodborne Illness (FDA)
• Outdoor Eating Food Safety Tips (FDA)

Kathy Fackler: Working to keep amusement parks safe

Last Friday, a 21-year-old park employee was fatally ejected from the Mind Scrambler, a spinning ride at Rye Playland amusement park in New York, the third person to be killed by a ride at the park since 2004, and the second fatality on the Mind Scrambler. Two weeks ago, a 13-year-old girl had both her legs severed, just above the ankles, on an amusement ride, when a cable snapped on a drop tower at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom.    

These gruesome accidents once again raise the question of amusement park safety — and the accountability of amusement park owners and government regulators to make sure such rides are safe.

That's been Kathy Fackler's mission for the last eight years.  Fackler has been pushing for stronger amusement park oversight and more public disclosure of park accidents since 1998, when her  then 5-year-old son David had hurt himself so badly on Disneyland's Big Thunder Mountain roller-coaster ride that he lost part of his foot. She now runs Saferparks, a public service organization devoted to preventing ride injuries through research, information sharing, and advocacy.

The latest incidents make Fackler's case even stronger. As she commented last month, after the Kentucky accident:

"What happened to that little girl highlights the high price of even a single failure. The only brag-worthy statistic for limb loss on an amusement park ride is zero. Cables don’t just snap. If they do, something has gone badly wrong in the system. There’s a history behind every serious accident that, if uncovered, can illuminate a path to prevention — not just on that ride or in that park, but on similar equipment across the globe.  Public records ensure that safety-critical information is available to all who need it, expanding the knowledge base of the engineer and inspector communities, and allowing consumers the right of informed choice in the marketplace."

Fackler didn't set out to be a safety crusader after her son was injured. Initially, she just wanted some answers — a chance to talk to Disneyland engineers to understand what happened. She said she was not after some big monetary legal award, but wanted to know what steps Disneyland had taken to prevent future injuries. But the answers were hard to come by. At first, as Fackler recently recalled, Disney officials told her the only way she could find out if changes had been made to the ride was to “go to the park, buy a ticket and take a ride to see if anything looked different.” 

For Fackler, her “watershed moment” came several months after David was injured, when a Disney guest died in a Christmas Eve accident on another ride. News reports said it was the park’s first serious injury in four years. Fackler personally knew otherwise —and wanted to make sure the public did as well. She contacted the press and the California state legislator who had been pushing for tighter amusement park laws for years, offering help. “I thought it would be 10 minutes of my time. I was very naïve.” Although it took less than a year to get the new law passed in 1999, it took several more to write the rules to implement it. By that time, Fackler was so vested in the new law that it’s no surprise she participated in the rule-writing committees. “By that time I was hooked,” she said. 

Fireworks safety tips for Independence Day

There's really only one tip we need to give you when it comes to fireworks: Leave it to the pros. Using fireworks on your own is both dangerous and, in many parts of the country, illegal. In 2006, according to figures from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 11 deaths and over 9,000 injuries associated with fireworks. Children under 15 accounted for 36% of the injuries; one four-year-old boy died when he and his older brother set off fireworks in their front yard, igniting a nearby gas tank.

The risks aren't just limited to Roman candles and rockets. Sparklers, which many people assume are safe, can burn at 2,000°F (hot enough to melt gold) and have been identified as the most common cause of firework-related injuries among children under 5. During 2006, the CPSC recorded over 1,000 sparkler-related injuries, including 200 eye injuries.

If you insist on doing it yourself, never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers. Check with local police to see what devices are legal to use in your area. Several states, including New York and New Jersey, ban all consumer fireworks, including sparklers. Check the CPSC full list of state laws. And, of course, legal doesn't mean safe. According to the CSPC, illegal products cause only about 2% percent of firecracker injuries. Also, be sure to check for recalls. This month, there have already been two fireworks recalls announced.

You can find more tips on fireworks safety at ConsumerReports.org. However, if you follow our first piece of advice, you can skip the rest, and have a fun — and safe — Fourth of July.

The dry facts about mixing electricity and water

We all know that electricity and water do not mix. But there are a host of other outdoor electrical hazards that we may not be aware of — or have forgotten over the years. And given that the Electrical Safety Foundational International has declared May Electrical Safety Month, now may be just the right time for a refresher course.

First, make sure any electrical product you use outside is intended for outdoor use. Why? Unless an electrical product is designed to be weather resistant, a sudden summer shower can ruin the product and turn it into a serious shock hazard. Most electrical products intended for continuous outdoor use have heavily insulated cords and molded-on plugs to prevent moisture from seeping in. If in doubt, check the manual where there may be a warning for “Indoor Use Only.”

Similarly, only use extension cords marked for outdoor use. And use only the length you need. With a cord above 100 feet, you can lose power and that, in turn, could lead to dangerous overheating. If the cord is three or four years old, check it for damage and replace if necessary.

Of course, we all know than electrical appliances and power tools should never be used while they are wet or close to water. And if an electrical product does fall into water, do not reach into the water for it. Make sure you are dry and not in contact with water or metal surfaces — and then unplug the product immediately.

When using an electrical product, make sure it is:

• Plugged in and turned on only when in use. 
• Turned off and in lock position when being carried or hooked up to attachments like mower baskets or saw blades. And don’t’ carry it by the cord. 
• Stored indoors (with a few exceptions such as an electric barbecue grill which can be covered and kept outside) and away from water and excessive heat. 
• Never left unattended outside, even temporarily. If there is a key, remove it so no curious child or unqualified adult can misuse it.

What about battery-operated products? They should also be stored indoors so they won’t be subjected to a higher moisture level or a sudden rainstorm. And don’t use cordless tools near gaseous or explosive materials since sparks from their motors might cause fires or explosions.
To recharge batteries, plug the charger into an indoor electrical outlet, never into an extension cord. As for storing extra batteries: keep them away from metal objects such as wire or nails because such contact can cause a large current flow, possibly leading to burns or fires.

More information from the Electrical Safety Foundational International is available here.

Senate wrestles with ATV safety

According to data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, at least 136,700 people were injured by all-terrain vehicles in 2005. About one-third of those injured were children under 16. Worse, at least 120 children younger than 16 were killed by ATVs that year. There are more than 7.6 million ATVs in use around the country and the number is growing. So it’s with good reason that a U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee held a hearing May 9 to consider ATV regulation. 

Front and center were two invited witnesses, Rachel Weintraub of the Consumer Federation of America, and David Murray, partner at the law firm of Wilkie, Farr and Gallagher and counsel to ATV manufacturer Yamaha Motor Corp. 

Senator Mark Pryor (D-AR) chaired the hour-long hearing. The top Republican on the Commerce Committee, Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK), and Senator Pryor have been pressing consumer groups and the ATV industry to come to a consensus on legislation that would help stem the tide of injuries and deaths related to ATV use. Based on the tone at the hearing, the parties seem nowhere near reaching that consensus. 

The two witnesses appeared to be in parallel universes. CFA’s testimony focused on the need to impose far stronger regulations on ATVs from the large American and Japanese manufacturers. The industry witness expressed grave concerns about Chinese imports’ failure to meet current voluntary standards for ATVs. 

The CFA’s Weintraub argued that with the high number of injuries proves the voluntary approach to ATV safety isn’t working. CFA is pushing for legislation that includes the following: a ban on the sale of adult-sized ATVs for use by children; safety standards imposed on ATV drivers who ride on federal lands; federally funded incentives for states to pass legislation requiring helmets on all ATV drivers; enforcement of the no-passenger rule; headlights on all ATVs; helmets included in the sale of any youth model; a study of a child’s ability to operate an ATV at various speeds; and a Government Accountability Office study on CPSC’s compliance efforts. 

The industry’s witness, Mr. Murray, who brought his three sons to the hearing, told the Committee that he and the boys enjoy riding ATVs safely. Murray focused almost entirely on Chinese imports of ATVs, which he said were “non-complying units” that “are targeted to American children and are being sold over the Internet and delivered directly to homes.” Murray claims that up to one-third of the ATVs in the US are Chinese imports. The CFA noted that of all ATVs recalled as of 2006, 20 models were manufactured in the US, 3 in Canada, 3 in Japan. Only one model was manufactured in China. 

The CFA said it is particularly concerned that the CPSC, the federal agency that regulates ATVs, is proposing to move from standards based on engine size to a ones based on maximum speed. And the CFA is alarmed by proposals to make the current voluntary industry standard, which it says is unsupported by safety studies, the basis for new legislation. 

— Sally Greenberg, Senior Product Safety Counsel, Consumers Union

Previously: 

• New data on ATVs: As dangerous as ever 
• On the path to safer ATVs

Look all ways when mowing the grass

With temperatures rising and grass growing, homeowners and entrepreneurial kids have begun putting their mowers in gear. We hope they're also gearing up to avoid becoming one of the 86,000 lawn-mower casualties who end up at emergency rooms each year. Mower-related injuries range from amputations to serious eye and head wounds caused by flying rocks and other debris. 

Certain types of mower injuries have decreased since 1983, thanks in large part to improved safety standards established back then to protect against blade-contact. But the incidence of other types of mishaps hasn't dropped, and operating a ride-on mower in reverse is particularly risky. A small but significant number of injuries and deaths related to ride-on mower use (approximately 5% and 7%, respectively) occur when bystanders, mostly children, are run or backed over.   

We think addressing this problem is a good idea; however, based on our testing of lawn tractors, we find that the current procedure comes up short. All models require some form of additional action in order to activate cutting while moving in reverse, which is intended to prompt the operator to check the cutting path behind the lawn tractor. Most models incorporate this into the ignition switch, requiring an additional turn of the key, while some have a separate switch that must be activated. 

We think dedicated switches are a good idea, but in our recent test of lawn tractors, we found they had serious limitations. On some models, such as those from Husqvarna and Craftsman, the inconspicuous switch only needs to be flipped once during a mowing session. Convenient, yes, but it's too easy to forget that you have overridden the no-mow-in-reverse feature. The models that make you flip the switch each time you you shift into reverse, such as the John Deere, or the models made by MTD, Inc., which require two actions (flipping a switch and pushing a button), are a bit of an improvement. But we think the best design was one that Toro used on a past model we tested; it locates the switch on the side of the seat, forcing the rider to turn around — and hopefully notice what's behind him — before mowing in reverse. Toro no longer uses this system.   

The system makes so much sense, we wonder why tractor and ride-on mower manufacturers haven't adopted it. Putting the reverse switch toward the rear compels drivers to turn and look behind when they mow in reverse, and seems to be an easy and obvious way to prevent injuries. Until manufacturers add a reliably safe system to all models, it's up to you to take the step of looking back before you reverse. 

ConsumerReports.org has more safety tips and information on buying and using mowers. 

Also: CR's Complete Lawn & Yard Guide

Video: How we test lawn mowers

Stay safe when using gas grills

Each year people are burned using grills and injured in liquid-propane (LP) and natural-gas fires and explosions associated with gas grills. Many of these fires and explosions occur when consumers first use a grill that has been left idle for a period of time or just after refilling and reattaching the gas container to the grill. Defective grills can also pose a danger. See information on recalls at www.recalls.gov to see if your model been recalled.

All LP tanks must now comply with upgraded National Fire Protection Association standards for overfill protection. Noncompliant tanks have a circular or five-lobed valve and aren't refillable, although they can be retrofitted with a three-lobed valve or swapped for a new tank at a hardware store or other refilling facility.

To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, you should routinely perform the following safety checks:

• Replace cracked or brittle propane hoses.
• Check hoses for gas leaks by applying dishwashing soap and water; bubbles indicate a leak. Replace as needed.
• Regularly empty grease pans, trays, or receptacles to minimize fire hazards.
• Never start a charcoal fire with gasoline.
• Never add lighter fluid to a charcoal fire after the fire has started; the flame can follow the stream of fluid to its source.
• Never use an outdoor grill indoors or in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or under a surface that can catch fire. Also, keep the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or other structure.
• Do not attempt to repair the valve on a gas tank or the grill yourself. See an LP dealer or a qualified appliance-repair service.

If you're in the market for a new grill, keep these safety checks in mind when shopping:

Case the cart. Give the grill a gentle bump from several angles to see if it tips. The more stable the grill, the safer. Carts with a sliding drawer to hold the fuel tank make it easier to use and change the tank. Also inspect the cart, firebox, and shelves for sharp edges and corners.

Beware of burns. If the curve of a handle places fingers or knuckles too close to the lid, you can get burned. Also, keep in mind that metal handles usually get hotter than wooden or plastic ones.

Check grease-drainage design. Although some flaring is to be expected, the more distance the drainage design puts between the fire and collected grease, the less the chance of sustained flare-ups when you cook fatty foods.

Opt for free assembly. It's easy to cut yourself while assembling a grill. But, remember, an assembled grill is bulkier than one in a box. So unless you have a large vehicle, you'll also have to pay for delivery.

You can get additional information on buying and using grills at ConsumerReports.org. Our free feature includes shopping and maintenance tips, cooking advice and even recipes. Subscribers to ConsumerReports.org can access ratings on more than two dozen models from brands including Weber, Char-Broil and Kenmore.

Randy Swart: bike-safety crusader

As a child, Randy Swart viewed his bicycle as his “freedom machine.” After all, he recently recalled, it was the only way to get around the small Virginia town where he grew up. 

Today, even though Swart has plenty of ways to get around, the bicycle has become an even more important part of his life. It’s not just because the 63-year-old Swart bikes 80 to 100 miles a week, partly for exercise, partly for errands and always for pleasure. Rather, bicycling — and more particularly safe bicycling — is a full-time mission for Swart. 

Over the past three decades, Swart has played an instrumental role in bringing safer helmets to U.S. riders. Swart is director of the all-volunteer Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute — with a must-see Web site for anyone in the market for a bike helmet. And currently he is also vice chairman of the helmet and headgear subcommittee for ASTM-International, a nonprofit, voluntary standard setting organization.

Swart runs the 18-year-old helmet institute out of his Arlington, Va., home with a $12,000 annual budget, all from consumer donations. He first became involved in helmet safety in the mid-1970s, when the Washington Area Bicyclist Association began testing helmets. At the time, he said, there were no standards. “There was an awful lot of junk in the market. You couldn’t tell if a given helmet was protective or not.” In fact, he said, initial tests showed that some of the helmets then for sale offered “almost zero protection.”

After a heated battle, the industry adopted a voluntary safety standard in 1984 through ANSI, another standards organization. But this standard was eventually deemed insufficient largely because it wasn’t mandatory. So under orders from Congress, the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued mandatory standards in 1999. Today, any helmet sold in the U.S. — no matter if it costs $10 or $150 — must comply.

The Helmet Institute played a critical role in the development of these standards, with Swart, a  former U.S. foreign service officer, at its helm since the very beginning.  Today, much of Swart’s attention is devoted to the Web site, which last year attracted 800,000 visitors. This year, Swart hopes that number will grow to over 1 million.      

Although helmets have come a long way in 30 years, there is still much room for improvement, Swart says. He believes helmets should provide more coverage; they should come further down on the sides and back. Helmets should also provide better protection in incidents with lesser impact. “Today there’s good protection in major impacts but we need anti-concussion helmets” for more minor incidents. “It’s not a simple thing” to do."   

And most importantly, Swart said, helmets need to fit riders b