March 28, 2007
West Marine inflator pumps are being recalled. They can explode during use, ejecting sharp plastic parts and posing a serious laceration hazard to consumers.
The distributor has received three reports of pumps exploding. One consumer reported lacerations and two fractured ribs. Two other consumers received minor lacerations to the face and chest.
The recalled inflator pump has a blue body with a black handle, hose, and pressure gage. The pump is 5-inches (12.7 cm) high and weighs about 3 pounds. West Marine is printed on a white sticker on the top of the pump housing. A second label contains a "caution" statement along with Ho Lee Co., Ltd. and UL listing information. The manufacturer's model number HB-183BG and the date code 1203 are also on the label.
The pumps were sold at West Marine and BoatU.S. stores and through direct sales nationwide from August 2003 through January 2007 for about $60.
Consumers are asked to return their inflator pump to nearest West Marine or BoatU.S. store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For more information consumers can contact West Marine or BoatU.S. at (800) 262-8464 anytime or visit the firm's Web site at www.westmarine.com.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
