| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Ken Giles |
| August 29, 1996 | (301) 504-7052 |
| Release # 96-185 |
CPSC, Collins International, Eagle Hardware & Garden Announce Recall for Ratchet Tie-Downs
WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Collins International, of Fair Lawn, N.J., and Eagle Hardware & Garden of Renton, Wash., are voluntarily recalling approximately 7,200 Ratchet Tie-Downs. The tie-downs are used to secure heavy items or oversize loads to trailers or trucks, or to secure furniture to hand trolleys. However, the Ratchet Tie-Downs may break even if the weight placed on them is significantly less than the 750-pound limit stated on the package. If the tie-downs break, the secured load may pull free, resulting in injury or property damage.Collins International has received three reports of the tie-downs breaking. Although the company is not aware of any injuries, Collins International has received reports of property damage. This recall is being conducted to prevent injuries.
The tie-down consists of four pieces: a black, nylon mesh strap; two black, vinyl-coated "S" hooks; and a brass, L-shaped rachet hook. Consumers operate the tie-down by inserting the strap through the ratchet hook, locking the strap in place, and securing the load by attaching the "S" hooks to the vehicle or hand trolley. The tie-down is packaged in clear plastic attached to a red, white, and blue cardboard backing which reads in part, "Professional Style Ratchet Tie Down ... Adjustable Length 4 ft. to 15 ft. ... Safe-Secure-Tight! ..."
Eagle Hardware & Garden sold the tie-downs nationwide from August 1995 to July 1996 for $4. Some of the tie-downs may have been resold at other stores.
Consumers should stop using the Ratchet Tie-Downs immediately and return them to the nearest Eagle Hardware & Garden store for a full refund. For more information, consumers can call Collins International toll-free at (888) 968-0070.
