August 22, 2007
About 250,000 SpongeBob SquarePants address books and journals are being recalled because of a lead poisoning hazard.
The paint on the metal spiral bindings of the address books and journals can contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recall involves address books and journals with SpongeBob SquarePants character on the front cover and a black metal spiral binding. The UPC numbers (80773007505 for the address book and 80773002260 for the journal) are printed on the back covers.
The items were sold at retail stores nationwide from June 2006 through July 2007 for about $2.
They were imported by Martin Designs Inc., of Ashland, Ohio, and manufactured in China.
Consumers should immediately take the recalled address books and journals away from children. Consumers should remove the UPC as proof of ownership and contact Martin Designs Inc. for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Martin Designs Inc. toll-free at (866) 898-0261 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firms Web site at www.martindesigns-ltd.com.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
