RECALL: Cedar Chests

This sweeping recall is being repeated. The U.S. CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Comm.) has placed these two brands on its list of the six "Most Wanted Recalled Products" for the year 2000. Seven children, ranging in age from 20 months to a 15 year old girl in February 1999 have died from suffocation.

After six deaths the Virginia-based furniture company in 1996 recalled 12 million chests with lids that automatically latch when closed. Fewer than 1% of the owners responded to the recall. Jane Francis, a CPSC spokeswoman said, "People say they don't want to replace the locks because they don't have children around the house, but you don't know who the chests will end up with. These will last a lifetime and another lifetime."

The recall covers all "LANE" and "VIRGINIA MAID" chests manufactured between 1912 and 1987. Many were probably purchased secondhand by buyers who have been uninformed of the dangers presented. (See our previous FYI information titled) When Sharing Is NOT Safe

Look for the "LANE" or "VIRGINIA MADE" name inside the chest. If the lid latches without depressing a button on the outside of the chest, then the lock needs to be replaced.

FREE REPLACEMENT LOCKS, which are easy to install and do not automatically latch shut, are available by calling this Toll-Free phone number 1-888-856-8758. When calling this Toll-Free number, be prepared to give both: the Serial Number which can be found on the back of the chest and the shape of the clasp (oval or rectangular) found inside the chest. You may also go to Lane's "Lock Replacement Program" website at www.newlock.net

** Paraphrased from the "Arizona Republic" newspaper 4/9/2000.