CPSC recall 97-109, announced April 22, 1997, covers Howard Berger Guard Security Hardware power strip surge protectors. Hazard: Electrocution/Electric Shock.
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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.
The following words are embossed on the bottom of the surge protector, "8 Outlet Power Strip...MP8...Made in China." There is a silver label affixed to the bottom of surge protector that reads, "UL Listed 50E8." The surge protector was packaged in a clear plastic bag with a cardboard header.
Which products are included?
Read the full CPSC product description and restrictions
Power Strip Surge Protectors Recall by Howard Berger NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles April 22, 1997 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-109 CPSC, Howard Berger Inc. Announce Recall of Power Strip Surge Protectors WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Howard Berger Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y., is recalling about 30,000 power strip surge protectors. The power strip surge protectors have undersized wires and loose connections, presenting fire, shock, and electrocution hazards. CPSC and Howard Berger Inc. are not aware of any injuries involving these surge protectors. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The surge protector has 8 outlets. It is made of a beige-colored plastic with a red power switch and a black reset button. The power switch and reset button are located on the raised end of the surge protector, which is about 1/2 inch higher than the outlets. The electrical cord is beige. The following words are embossed on the bottom of the surge protector, "8 Outlet Power Strip...MP8...Made in China." There is a silver label affixed to the bottom of surge protector that reads, "UL Listed 50E8." The surge protector was packaged in a clear plastic bag with a cardboard header. Labeling on the bag reads in part, "Guard Security Hardware...Made in China." Labeling on the cardboard header reads in part, "8 Outlet Power Center...MP8...Made in China." Discount, variety, and hardware stores in the Northeast sold the surge protectors from January 1995 through October 1996 for about $6. Consumers should stop using the recalled surge protectors immediately and return them to the stores where purchased for a full refund. For more information, consumers should call Howard Berger Inc. at (800) 695-4827. Consumers who live in the New York metropolitan area should call (718) 272-1540. CPSC learned of this problem during joint surveillance with the U.S. Customs Service.
Why it was recalled
Electrocution/Electric Shock
Official remedy
No separate remedy text is present in the API record. Follow the official CPSC notice.
What to do now
- Check the product. This notice lists no model numbers. Compare yours with the description and photos in the official notice.
- Read the official notice. The CPSC notice is the final word on which units are included and what to do.
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Product and sales details
- Brand
- Howard Berger
- Manufacturer
- Howard Berger
- Product type
- Power strips
- Recall number
- 97-109
- Manufactured in
- China
This recall in context
Compared with the 43 power strip recalls in this index, as of October 31, 2026.
- Hazard
- Electric shock: named in 34 of 43 power strip recalls, the most common hazard among them.
- Brand history
- Howard Berger is named in 2 CPSC notices in this index, from 1997 to 2010. This recall is the earliest. 2 of them are power strip recalls.
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.
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