Zicam – On June 16, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified consumers to stop using Zicam nasal gel and nasal swab products. These homeopathic cold remedy products have been associated with the loss of the sense of smell which, in some cases, may be permanent. The manufacturer is offering refunds to consumers and has agreed to stop shipping the products in question. Anyone who has experienced the loss of the sense of smell after using Zicam nasal gel or nasal swab products should contact a health care professional immediately. The company has been settling lawsuits for consumers who have lost the sense of smell while using these products since 2006.
Viking Refrigerators – The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a notice of voluntary recall of Viking refrigerators. These refrigerators have doors that can detach and fall on users. The models involved are built-in 48 inch wide side-by-side refrigerator/freezers and 36 inch wide refrigerators with bottom freezers. These models were sold between July 1999 and April 2006, with retail prices ranging from $4,725 to $6,400 per unit. Consumers should contact Viking to schedule a free in-home repair. Their toll free number is (888) 345-2650.
Starbucks Coffee Grinders – On June 16, 2009, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of Starbucks Barista Blade Coffee Grinders and Seattle’s Best Blade Coffee Grinders made by Tsann Kuen. The units can fail to turn off or can turn on unexpectedly, leading to lacerations to unsuspecting users. The units have been sold at Starbucks and Seattle’s Best coffee shops since March 2002, and retail for approximately $30. Consumers should immediately stop using these grinders and contact Starbucks toll free at (866) 276-2950 to receive a free replacement grinder.
Black & Decker Coffee Makers – On June 23, 2009, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of Black & Decker® brand Spacemaker™ coffee makers. The brew basket on these coffeemakers can shift out of alignment allowing hot water to overflow, causing a scalding and burn hazard to consumers. This model has an under-cabinet mount, programmable digital clock/ timer, removable water reservoir and either a 12- cup glass carafe or an 8- cup thermal carafe. The recall includes only model numbers ODC440, ODC440B, ODC450, and ODC460. This number can be located on the back of the coffee maker. Consumers should immediately and contact Applica for a free replacement brew basket. Their toll-free number is (866) 669- 4442.
If you, a family member or friend have been injured by a defective product, please visit our About Us page and contact HILL | TURNER LLC with any questions you may have about protecting your rights as a consumer.
