Shindaiwa backpack blowers recalled

WASHINGTON, May 19 (UPI) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of Shindaiwa Corp. backpack blowers due to laceration and impact hazards.

The blower's fan can separate from the base, break apart and fly through the blower, posing hazards to those nearby, a CPSC statement said.

Shindaiwa dealers sold about 23,000 blowers between September 2005 and January 2007 for about $600. The recall involves models EB8510 and EB8510RT. The recall includes all models of the 24-pound backpack blowers with serial numbers through February 2007 production -- S/N 702XXXX.

The machines are black and blue with red and black labels reading "EB8510 Shindaiwa" the statement said.

Consumers are advised to stop using the blowers immediately and contact a Shindaiwa dealer for an inspection and repairs.

Consumers can also call Shindaiwa at 800-521-7733.