Toys Recalled Due To Potential Choking Hazard

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Associated Merchandising Corporation (AMC), New York, New York is voluntarily recalling 750 "Music Maker" Elephant toys imported by the company because small parts may detach posing a potential choking hazard to young children and because of potentially excessive lead levels in the toy's paint. The toy was distributed nationwide from August to November 1989. The retail price ranged from $12.00 to $20.00 each. To date, AMC and the CPSC are not aware of any injuries associated with this toy.

The Music Maker toy is blue plastic in the shape of an elephant, with four musical features built into and on top of the body; a xylophone, drum, bells and ball popper.

The toy contains a multi-colored, bell-like device which is attached with a smooth rivet that may detach, resulting in the potential choking hazard. In addition, the yellow paint used on the toy may contain lead in excess of 0.06 percent, the level set in CPSC regulations limiting lead content on children's articles.

The toy comes in a blue box with the name "Creative Years" in the top right hand corner of the front of the box. Printing on the front of the box also states: "Style 29/555" and "For ages 6 months and up." One side of the box is labeled "1989 AMC. Distributed by AMC, New York, N.Y. 10018. Made in China."

Consumers having this toy should take it away from children immediately and return it to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumers having questions about the recall should contact AMC at (212) 536-4000.