ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, April 4, 1996 TAG: 9604040103
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: B-7 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: WASHINGTON
A government safety agency has recalled 42,000 wooden armadillos and turtles because lead levels in their painted surfaces are unlawfully high and could endanger children.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission also said some models of Black & Decker hedge trimmers should be returned because their ``lock off'' switches may not work.
The wooden animals were made in Mexico of dried gourds and are painted in bright colors. They were imported by The Americas Co. of San Francisco. Six retailers, including The Nature Company, sold them nationwide between May 1995 and February 1996 for $4-$14 each.
The toys should be returned to the place of purchase for refunds or exchange, the commission said. The Americas Co. can be called at 800-278-4329 for more information.
Black & Decker of Towson, Md., said it was recalling 2,000 hedge trimmers because they can be turned on even with the switch in the ``OFF'' position.
The trimmers were sold by hardware and home center stores in February and March for $29-$39. Consumers should return them to a Black & Decker service center for a free replacement or contact the company at 800-762-6672.
- Associated Press
LENGTH: Short : 33 linesby CNB