Nintendo Recalls Wii Wrist Straps Due to Cord Breakage Risk
Nintendo is replacing wrist straps for Wii controllers because the cords may break during use, posing a risk of injury to bystanders.
What this means for you
Minor labeling or packaging issue, or a voluntary precautionary recall. Risk of harm is low but real — follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk of harm where minor injuries have been reported, but no serious injuries or fatalities are noted, fitting the criteria for moderate severity.
Plain-English summary
Nintendo of America is initiating a replacement program for wrist straps used with controllers for the Wii video game system. The recall involves approximately 2 million wrist straps that were sold with the Wii system or as part of the Wii Remote.
The hazard exists because the 0.6 mm diameter cords on the wrist straps can break if a consumer swings the controller with excessive force and accidentally lets go. This could cause the controller to strike bystanders or objects. Nintendo has received reports of cords breaking, including three reports of minor injuries that did not require medical attention. All reported incidents occurred while consumers were playing the game "Wii Sports."
Consumers should contact Nintendo to obtain a replacement wrist strap with a thicker 1.0 mm diameter cord. The Wii video game systems were sold starting November 19, 2006, for approximately $249, and Wii Remotes were sold separately for approximately $39. Systems and remotes purchased after specific dates in December 2006 should already have the new 1.0 mm cord.
The recalled product
- Product
- Wrist Straps Used with Controllers for Wii Video Game System
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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