Struggling Biddeford recalls blankets

By Don Hogsett -- Home Textiles Today, 10/29/2001 12:00:00 AM

BIDDEFORD, ME —

Already hobbled by a recent bankruptcy, Biddeford Textile Corp. has launched a voluntary recall of 394,000 electric blankets due to a faulty plug that connects the blanket to the control device, posing a fire hazard.

Cooperating with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Biddeford began the recall earlier this month after receiving 34 reports of the automatic blankets overheating, melting and scorching. No injuries or property damage were reported.

The blankets had been sold at such retailers as Kohl's, Target, Sears Canada, Belk Stores, Pamida, Proffitt's/ McRae's, Strouds and WestPoint Stevens and Springs outlet stores from August 1999 to July 2001 as well as through direct-mail retailers including JCPenney, Sears Canada, Blair Corp., Fingerhut and Popular Club.

The CPSC said the blankets were sold under the model names Controlled Comfort, EH2000, Starbright, Staywarm, Supreme 21, Warm Comfort and had serial numbers A001A to C210C. The name "Biddeford Textile Corp.," along with the blanket's model name and its serial number are printed on a label near where the control switch is plugged in.

A free replacement plug connector adapter is available from the company by calling Biddeford at (877) 217-6294 or by visiting Biddeford's website at www.blanketrecall.com.