FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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May 28, 1982 |
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Release # 82-023 |
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Recall Of Hot Tub, Spa, Whirlpool Suction
Drain Fitting Because Of Hair Entrapment
WASHINGTON, D.C. --The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
in cooperation with Hydro Air Industries Inc., Orange, California,
today announced a voluntary recall of approximately 125,000
suction drain cover fittings for spas, hot tubs and whirlpools
because of the danger of hair entrapment.
Three incidents have occurred when pre-teenage girls put
their heads under water and their long hair became entangled in
the suction drain cover fitting. Two incidents resulted in death
by drowning, and in one incident the victim was pulled free.
Water is drawn from the spa through 3-5/8 inch plastic
suction fitting or drain covers located on the wall of the
spa l-3 inches from the bottom. A powerful strong suction exists
at the water outlet suction fitting or drain cover when the high
speed whirlpool suction is turned on.
The Hydro Air suction drain cover fittings can be identified
by the three slots on the face of the fitting cover. The middle
slot measures 3/16 inches by l-1/2 inches and the two slots on
either side measures 3/16 inches by l-1/4.
These suction/drain cover fittings have been sold nationwide
since 1979. Most sales occurred within California, Arizona,
Texas and Florida.
Consumers should immediately stop using their hot tubs,
spas and whirlpools. They should contact the company responsible
for the installation, or Hydro Air Industries, Inc.
(1317 W. Grove, Orange, CA 92665, Telephone: 714-974-1920,
call collect), to determine whether their unit has a defective
suction/drain cover and to make arrangements for a free
replacement.
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