General Cable Recalls Outdoor Extension Cords Due to Shock Hazard

Plain-English summary

General Cable Corp. is recalling more than 2,700 outdoor extension cords sold under the Carol and Ace brand names in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recall is due to an exposed wire near the receptacle end of the cord, which presents a shock hazard to consumers. The company is not aware of any injuries involving these cords, and the recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

The affected Carol brand extension cords feature orange, yellow, green, blue, or beige cords with matching or black plugs and receptacles. They have three receptacles at one end marked "CAROL" and "W-8" and are available in lengths from 2 to 100 feet. The Ace brand extension cords have orange cords with black plugs and receptacles, three receptacles marked "W-8" (and possibly "ACE"), and are available in 2, 10, 50, or 100-foot lengths. Both brands are UL listed and were sold in cardboard wrappers indicating they were made in the USA.

These extension cords were sold at hardware stores, home centers, and electrical distributors nationwide from April 1997 through May 1997 for prices ranging from about $6 to $90. Consumers should stop using these extension cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased to receive a full refund. Alternatively, consumers can receive a refund by calling General Cable Corp. toll-free at (888) 594-2600 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday or by writing to the company at Dept. 1R, Tesseneer Drive, Highland Heights, Ky. 41076-9753.

The recalled product

Product

Ace outdoor extension cords

Manufacturer

Carol

Category

Consumer Product — Electrical Cords

Hazard

• electric-shock

Distribution

Related recalls