Electrocution Hazard Prompts Recall Of 12,000 Hair Dryers

WASHINGTON--Approximately 12,000 Pierre Cardin "Elegance" model EL203 hand-held hair dryers are being voluntarily recalled by the importer, Arrow Trading Company of New York, N.Y., because of a potential electrocution hazard to consumers.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the hair dryer does not protect consumers against the possibility of electrocution should the product fall into a water-filled sink or bathtub while the switch is in the "off" position. CPSC estimates that 17 people -- 10 of whom are children under 10 years of age -- are electrocuted each year in similar accidents involving hand-held hair dryers. The agency said the recall is part of its continuing effort to reduce risk of electrocution and injury with electrical products around the home.

Arrow Trading Company said "Elegance" model E1203 hair dryers were sold nationwide through a variety of retailers.

Consumers should return the hair dryer to the place of purchase for a full refund.

CPSC Chairman Jacqueline Jones-Smith said, "CPSC investigations have shown that children often use these appliances as devices for bath-time play. Children left unattended in the bathtub can bring a hair dryer into the tub, resulting in electrocution. While any child's death is tragic, these electrocutions are particularly devastating because they are preventable."

CPSC urged consumers to have ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) installed in bathroom and kitchen circuits to reduce chances of electrocution. Jones-Smith added, "At the very least, small appliances like hair dryers and curling irons should never be left plugged in, especially in homes with young children."