The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·99067·Announced 1999-02-23

Wellmax Recalls Nearly 1 Million Household Extension Cords

Wellmax is recalling nearly 1 million extension cords sold in five states due to fire and electrocution hazards.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

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 and electrocution) where no injuries have been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Wellmax International Inc. is voluntarily recalling nearly 1 million household extension cords in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recalled cords are white, available in lengths of 6, 9, 12, 15, and 20 feet, and feature specific black labeling imprinted on the cord. They were packaged in green cardboard display sleeves labeled "HOUSEHOLD EXTENSION CORD" and "MADE IN CHINA."

The recall is being conducted because the cords have undersized wires and reverse polarity receptacles that allow plugs to be incorrectly inserted. These defects present fire, shock, and electrocution hazards to consumers. CPSC and Wellmax are not aware of any injuries involving these cords, and the recall is intended to prevent the possibility of injury.

The cords were sold at discount and tool stores in California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Texas from March 1997 through November 1998 for approximately $1 to $2. Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to Wellmax International, Inc. for a full refund plus the cost of shipping. To initiate a return, consumers must include their return address, phone number, a copy of the receipt or an indication of the price paid, the name of the retail store, and the cost for return shipping. Questions can be directed to Wellmax at (800) 387-8865.

The recalled product

Product
Wellmax household extension cords
Manufacturer
Wellmax Intl
Category
Consumer Product — Electrical Cords
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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