The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·15022·Announced 2014-11-12

Aqua Lung Recalls Buoyancy Compensators Due to Drowning Hazard

Aqua Lung is recalling buoyancy compensators with SureLock II handles that may detach, posing a drowning risk. Consumers should stop using them and return them for free replacement.

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 (drowning hazard) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the High severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Aqua Lung America is expanding its recall of buoyancy compensators equipped with SureLock II weight pocket handles. The rubber handles can detach while divers are attempting to remove weight pockets to rise to the surface in an emergency, which creates a drowning hazard. Aqua Lung is aware of 50 additional reports of the handles detaching, though no injuries have been reported.

The recall covers approximately 30,000 units in the United States and 11,300 in Canada. This includes specific models of Aqua Lung and Apeks buoyancy compensators with serial numbers lower than BB408620. The affected units were sold at sporting goods and scuba diving stores nationwide from September 2008 through October 2014 for between $460 and $700.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensators. They should return the two weight pockets to an authorized Aqua Lung dealer to receive a free inspection and free newly-designed replacement weight pocket handles. For more information, consumers can contact Aqua Lung toll-free at (855) 355-7170 or visit www.aqualung.com.

The recalled product

Product
Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators with SureLock II weight pocket handles
Affected units
30,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.