October 8, 2002
Thrifty Paper Co. Announces Recall of Electric Fans

Thrifty Paper Co. Inc., of Hempstead, NY, is voluntarily recalling about 26,000 electric fans. These electric fans have undersized wiring, use a power plug that is not polarized, overheat and have an improperly sized grill, all of which could cause electrocution, electric shock, fire, and finger entrapment hazards to consumers. Thrifty Paper Co. has not received any reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled electric fans, which have the brand name "Top Choice" printed on the fan blade cover, were sold under seven different model names: SF16BU(BE), SF16BK, DF16BU(BE), DF18, FL18, and BSD-18066. The model name can be found on the motor housing. The DF18 and FL18 models have a label that reads, "Hi Velocity Top Choice Air Circulator," which is also located on the fan blade cover. The three-speed, four-position fans are either floor-mounted or tabletop units. The fans were manufactured in China. Discount and variety stores in the metropolitan New York area sold these electric fans from April 2000 through June 2002 for between $10 and $15.

Consumers should stop using these electric fans immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Consumers can also return the fans to the firm for a full refund, by mailing the unit to: 110 West Graham Ave., Hempstead, N.Y., 11550. For more information, contact Thrifty Paper Co. toll-free at (888) 281-3281 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.