Plastic Ring Caps For Toy Guns Recalled

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 29) -- The Acme Specialties Corporation, an importer of novelty items in River Grove, Illinois, today announced a voluntary recall of thousands of "Three Stars" plastic ring caps which may accidentally explode causing serious burns to the user. This announcement was made in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The ring caps are commonly used in toy guns to produce a loud report when the trigger is pulled. Each cap consists of a plastic disc measuring 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and 8 cap charges which are positioned within small plastic cups around the outer edge of the disc.

The charges are made with a small amount of friction-sensitive pyrotechnic material which is formed into l/8-inch pellets.

According to CPSC staff and the firm, the charged pellets can accidentally fall out of their protective cups and may explode without warning , possibly resulting in serious burns to the user. In some instances, the caps fired while in children's pockets.

Since mid-June this year, at least five children reportedly have received first and second-degree burns when the caps exploded unexpectedly, according to CPSC staffers. One other child reportedly was burned in February, 1979.

The ring caps are sold six-to-a-set in Clear plastic packages which are labeled, "Three Stars Plastic Ring Caps" and "Made in Taiwan." They primarily have been marketed in the Midwest by 5-and-10-cent stores, including Walgreens, and various other retailers since 1978.

The caps are most frequently sold as a separate item. However, they often appear on display shelves near toy cap guns.

Parents are advised to return all such caps immediately to the retailer for a full refund. Consumers should take extra care to avoid skin contact with the caps, and they should not carry the caps in their pockets.

Anyone who is unsuccessful getting a refund may contact Lawrence Callan of Acme Specialties Corporation by calling 312/453-7121. They also may call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.