Date: Sat, 15 Jan 1999 12:51:54 -0500
From: stedman@No-Spam
Newsgroups: sci.astro.amateur
Subject: WARNING--AC Dew Zapper Recall--STOP Using Certain Models!
ORION Telescope and Binocs has posted an urgent safety warning on its web
site.
http://www.telescope.com/interact/html.asp?page=Dew_Zapper.html
"Safety Recall
Orion AC Dew Zapper
The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has informed us of a
manufacturing defect in some AC-powered (110-volt) Dew Zappers, which
could pose an electrical shock hazard. The connection between the power
cord and the heating strip may be inadequately sealed, which could allow
live electrical wires to be exposed. Although no injuries have been
reported, we are voluntarily recalling affected AC model Dew Zappers sold
between May 1995 and August 1999, as a safety precaution.
Units being recalled are #3504 for 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain, #3509 for 9-1/4"
Schmidt-Cassegrain, #3508 for 10" Schmidt-Cassegrain, and #3510 for 11"
Schmidt-Cassegrain.
The defective AC Dew Zappers have a three-prong plug and the words "Orion
Dew Zapper" on the heating element. This recall does not apply to AC Dew
Zappers purchased prior to May 1995 (which are printed with the words
"Orion Telescope Center"), or to Dew Zappers powered by 12 volts DC (DC
model Dew Zappers).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AC Dew Zappers with this printing on the heating strip are defective and
are being recalled. AC Dew Zappers with this printing are safe to use
and are NOT being recalled.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have one of the affected AC Dew Zappers: 1. Discontinue use of the
product immediately, to avoid risk of injury.
. . . "
--
Mark Wagner
Visit the S.F. bay area's spot for active observational
astronomers - The Astronomy Connection http://www.seds.org/TAC