April
24, 2003
Name of product: Electric Blankets
Units: 11,000 manufactured.
Manufacturer: WestPoint Stevens Inc., of West Point, Ga.
Hazard: When the blanket is folded, the heating element can overheat,
causing the heating element and blanket to melt. This poses the risk of thermal
burns to consumers.
Description: The Vellux ® fahrenheit™ blankets were sold in various
colors and sizes to fit all mattress sizes. The temperature controller is white
with the words, "WESTPOINT STEVENS" and "fahrenheit Heated
Blanket" printed on the front. The recall includes blankets manufactured
from July 2002 through January 2003. The manufacture date is printed on a label
sewn into the seam.
Sold at: Department stores, mail order catalogs and Web sites sold the
blankets nationwide from July 2002 through April 2003 for between $80 and $130.
Manufactured in: U.S.A.
Remedy: WestPoint Stevens will provide consumers postage-free return
packaging to return the product, a full refund and $25 to compensate consumers
for the inconvenience.
Consumer Contact: Call WestPoint Stevens Inc. toll-free at (888) 439-
4794 anytime, or go to the firm's Web site at http://www.westpointstevens.com/recall.php
Firm's Media Contact: Toni Cauble at (706) 645-4879.