NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2008
Release #08-395

Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 261-1193
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys Recalled by Protocol Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: “Protocol” Remote-Controlled Mini Helicopter Toys

Units: About 78,000

Importer: Ashley Collection Inc., d.b.a. Protocol, of New York, N.Y.

Hazard: The rechargeable battery inside the helicopter can overheat. This can result in the helicopter’s body melting, as well as a risk of fire or burns to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received nine reports of incidents of the helicopter overheating, including one minor burn to a consumer’s fingertip.

Descriptions: This recall involves the “Protocol” remote-controlled mini helicopter toys with model number starting with 1442. The helicopter is made of foam and plastic and measures about 7 inches long. “Protocol” is printed on the tail and on the side of the helicopter. “1442-X” can be found on the packaging. The remote-control component measures 5 1/2 inches by 4 3/4 inches.

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from October 2007 through December 2007 for between $30 and $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact the firm for information on how to receive a replacement helicopter.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Protocol at (800) 261-1193 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET, or visit the company’s Web site at www.protocoldesign.com

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08395.html