The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·01127b·Announced 2001-04-18

Recall of Westek Rope Light On/Off Switches Due to Electric Shock Hazard

American Tack & Hardware is recalling Westek rope light switches that may remain energized, posing an electric shock risk. No injuries have been reported.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (electric shock) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the High severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

American Tack & Hardware Co. Inc. is recalling on/off switches sold in packages of Westek rope lights. The recalled switches are rectangular white plastic boxes containing a wheel-type switch. If the rope lights are plugged in, even if the lights are not lit, the switch on the power cord could allow the lights to remain energized. This poses a potential electric shock hazard to consumers.

About 270,000 units were sold nationwide from April 1997 through October 2000. The Westek "Rope Lighting Kits" were sold in 9-foot and 18-foot lengths in clear red, yellow, green, blue, and orange. The switches were also included in Westek "Power Cord Kits" designed for use with bulk rope lights. These products were sold at home center stores, including Home Depot, and lighting showrooms for about $29 to $39 for the Rope Lighting Kits and $7 to $10 for the Power Cord Kit.

No injuries have been reported. Consumers should not install the power switch supplied with the Westek rope lights. If the switch is already installed, consumers should stop using the lights immediately and unplug them. Consumers with installed switches should call American Tack & Hardware Co. Inc. toll-free at (800) 777-0801 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to receive a free replacement power cord.

The recalled product

Product
On/off switches sold in packages of Westek rope lights
Manufacturer
American Tack & Hardware Co. Inc., of Monsey, N.Y.
Category
Consumer Product — Lighting
Hazard
Affected units
270,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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