WestPoint Stevens Recalls Vellux Electric Blankets Due to Overheating Risk
WestPoint Stevens is recalling Vellux fahrenheit electric blankets because they can overheat when folded, posing a risk of thermal burns.
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 (thermal burns) where minor injuries have been reported, fitting the criteria for a High severity score.
Plain-English summary
WestPoint Stevens Inc. is recalling approximately 11,000 Vellux® fahrenheit™ electric blankets. The recall involves blankets manufactured between July 2002 and January 2003 and sold in various colors and sizes to fit all mattress sizes. The temperature controller is white with "WESTPOINT STEVENS" and "fahrenheit Heated Blanket" printed on the front.
The hazard exists because the heating element can overheat when the blanket is folded, causing the element and blanket to melt. This poses a risk of thermal burns to consumers. WestPoint has received 10 reports of the blankets overheating, including four reports of minor skin burns.
The blankets were sold nationwide through department stores, mail order catalogs, and websites from July 2002 through April 2003 for between $80 and $130. Because WestPoint Stevens is no longer in business, consumers should contact WestPoint Home at 866-643-4735 for information regarding the recall.
The recalled product
- Product
- Vellux® fahrenheit™ electric blankets
- Manufacturer
- WestPoint Stevens Inc., of West Point, Ga.
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 11,000
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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