CPSC recall 00013a, announced November 4, 1999, covers Fairlong International Household extension cords (more than 149,600 units). The cords have undersized wires, incorrect ratings, lack overcurrent protection and allow polarize plugs to be incorrectly inserted into the receptacles. The notice reports no incidents. Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased, for a refund. Recall contact: call (800) 577-8197.
Advertisements
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
The recalled cords are made of white or brown plastic, measure 6 or 9 feet long and have 3 receptacles. A plastic safety cover is imprinted with caution statements, which include "Avoid Hazards, Keep Children Away, Unplug When Not In Use, Rated 125-Volts, For Indoor Use Only." The cords are marked with the following information, "SPT-2, 18AWGX2C, VW-1, 60 C." The cords were sold in blue and yellow cardboard wrappers. The cords are made in China.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhat to look for
- When sold
- July 1997 through October 1999
- Price paid
- $1 to $2
Why it was recalled
The cords have undersized wires, incorrect ratings, lack overcurrent protection and allow polarize plugs to be incorrectly inserted into the receptacles. These cords present fire, shock and electrocution hazards to consumers.
Incidents and injuries
None reported.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using the recalled cords immediately and return them to the store where purchased, for a refund. Consumers also can return the cords directly to the company, for a refund, plus the cost of postage.
What to do now
- Check the product. This notice lists no model numbers. Compare yours with the description and photos in the official notice.
- Stop using it. The notice says to stop using recalled units immediately.
- Contact the firm. Call (800) 577-8197.
- Read the official notice. The CPSC notice is the final word on which units are included and what to do.
Advertisements
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Fairlong International
- Product type
- Extension cords, Power strips
- Recall number
- 00013a
- Units
- More than 149,600
- Manufactured in
- China
- Sold at / sales period
- Wholesale and discount stores in the Chicago area, and a few stores in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan and Ohio, sold the cords, from July 1997 through October 1999, for about $1 to $2.
- Importer
- Fairlong International, of Addison, Ill.
Household extension cords
CPSC product type: Extension Cords/Power Strips/Surge Protectors
This recall in context
Compared with the 41 extension cord recalls in this index, as of October 31, 2026.
- Size
- 149,600 units: the 6th-largest of 21 extension cord recalls that state a unit count. The median is 30,000 units.
- Hazards
- Fire: named in 18 of 41 extension cord recalls. Electric shock: named in 33 of 41 extension cord recalls, the most common hazard among them.
- Time on sale
- About 2 years. Recalled 1 month after the last month of sales the notice gives.
Recall contact information
For instructions, consumers should call Fairlong at (800) 577-8197 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
Advertisements
