DIY Life

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Shindaiwa Corp, has announced a voluntary recall of about 23,000 Shindaiwa Backpack Blowers, models EB8510 and EB8510RT. Shindaiwa is aware of 13 incidents involving broken propellers, including one incident involving a minor head injury and minor property damage to a nearby automobile.

A laceration and impact hazard is posed to consumers when plastic pieces are blown out of the machine, if the blower's impeller (fan) separates from the base of the machine and breaks apart. The flying pieces can also cause property damage and injury to bystanders.

Manufactured in Japan, and sold by Shindaiwa dealers from September 2005 through January 2007 for about $600, the backpack blowers weigh approximately 24 pounds and include serial numbers through February 2007. Please see the CPSC press release for more information on the black and blue blowers.

Consumers are advised to stop using the backpack blowers immediately. To find the closest dealer to schedule a free inspection and impeller replacement, contact Shindaiwa at (800) 521-7733, or visit their website at www.shindaiwa.com.

FYI: The Shindaiwa Backpack Blowers were previously recalled due to a fire hazard.