WL-322

Flying Toy Helicopter Being Recalled NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE August 19, 1986 Release # 86-52 Flying Toy Helicopter Being Recalled Washington, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Go Fly A Kite, Inc., E. Haddam, Connecticut is recalling a flying toy helicopter called Model WL-322 Flying Copter. Approximately 10,000 "Flying Copters" were distributed by the firm during the past year nationwide. This toy has previously been recalled by other companies who have marketed it. The toy, imported by many firms, has been responsible for eye injuries and facial lacerations. Some of the injuries have resulted in permanent blindness. This toy has previously been recalled by other companies who have marketed it. The toy has been imported by many firms and CPSC is involved in contacting each of these firms as quickly as they can be identified. CPSC has investigated accidents in which this toy has been responsible for serious eye injuries and facial lacerations not only to children but adults as well. The "Flying Copter", which retailed for $3.50 is a 7 l/2 inch plastic flying toy helicopter with a hand launching device. The helicopter is mostly white with three red plastic rotor blades. The launching handle is green. Assembly is required before the toy can be flown. It is this assembly which is difficult and if done improperly, could allow the rotor blades to come off and strike the user or bystander. Consumers are urged to discontinue use and to return the toy helicopter to the store where it was purchased for a full refund.