The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·97109·Announced 1997-04-22

Howard Berger Recalls 30,000 Power Strip Surge Protectors for Fire and Shock Hazards

Howard Berger Inc. is recalling about 30,000 Guard Security Hardware power strip surge protectors due to undersized wires and loose connections that pose fire, shock, and electrocution risks.

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 (fire, shock, electrocution) where no injuries have been reported, which aligns with the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Howard Berger Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling approximately 30,000 Guard Security Hardware power strip surge protectors in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recalled units feature eight outlets, a beige plastic body, a red power switch, and a black reset button. The electrical cord is beige, and the bottom of the unit is embossed with "8 Outlet Power Strip...MP8...Made in China." A silver label on the bottom reads "UL Listed 50E8."

The recall is being conducted because the surge protectors have undersized wires and loose connections, which present hazards of fire, shock, and electrocution. CPSC and Howard Berger Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these products, and the recall is intended to prevent the possibility of injury.

The surge protectors were sold in discount, variety, and hardware stores in the Northeast from January 1995 through October 1996 for about $6. Consumers should stop using the recalled surge protectors immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers can call Howard Berger Inc. at (800) 695-4827, or (718) 272-1540 if located in the New York metropolitan area.

The recalled product

Product
Guard Security Hardware power strip surge protectors
Manufacturer
Howard Berger
Category
Consumer Product — Electrical Safety
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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