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 Products: Black & Decker BV4000 Type 1 Blower/Vacs

Units: About 272,000

Manufacturer: Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md.

Hazard: A loose connection between the blower/vac and an extension cord can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Black & Decker has received 187 reports of smoking, melting and/or fire near the blower/vac's plug, including one report of a fire extending beyond the unit. Black & Decker has received seven reports of minor burns, none of which required medical treatment.

Description and Models: This recall involves Black & Decker model BV4000 Type 1 blower/vacs. The model and type number are printed on a name plate on the right side of the unit. The blower/vacs have an orange housing and a black blower assembly.

Sold at: Home center, hardware and discount stores nationwide from April 2004 through July 2005 for about $70.

Manufactured in: Mexico

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the blower/vacs immediately and contact Black & Decker for a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, consumers can contact Black & Decker at (866) 853-2138 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at http://www.blackanddecker.com/Customer Center/Recalls.aspx

Firm's Recall Hotline: (866) 853-2138
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

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