NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

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August 22, 1989
Release # 89-080

Children's "Hush Puppies" Sweat Suits Recalled: Squeakers In Decal Are Potential Choking Hazards

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Haddad Group, Ltd. of Bayonne, New Jersey is recalling its "Hush Puppies" sweat suits, which contain squeakers that are potential choking hazards for infants and toddlers. All sizes, from 3 Months to 4 Toddler, and all colors of the sweat suits are being recalled.

Approximately 47,000 suits were sold at Montgomery Ward stores from August to December 15, 1988, at which time they were removed from sale. The Haddad Group, Montgomery Ward and CPSC are aware of two incidents in which the squeaker or its 1/2 inch noisemaking tube was found in a child's mouth; neither incident resulted in an injury.

"Hush Puppies" sweat suits are 100 percent acrylic two-piece sets. The sweatshirt is decorated with a plastic decal of a "Hush Puppies" dog. The heat-sealed decal can come loose and release a small squeaker inserted behind it. The squeaker contains a one-half inch noisemaking tube that can separate and become a potential choking hazard for young children.

Identifying labels which read, "Hush Puppies Boyswear," are sewn inside the neck of the sweatshirts. Plastic white letters which read, "Hush Puppies," are heat-sealed above or below the decal on the front of the sweatshirts.

Consumers should immediately discontinue using the sweat suits and bring them to any Montgomery Ward store for a full refund or send them to The Haddad Group, Ltd., 90 East 5th Street, Bayonne, NJ 07002 for a full refund plus postage. For additional information, consumers may call The Haddad Group, Ltd. at 1-800-221-2494. In New York call collect at 212-685-4141.