FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2005
Release #06-016
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 356-5284
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Hellenic Rug Imports Inc. Announce Recall of Shag Leather Rugs

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Shag Leather Rugs

Units: About 1,800

Manufacturer/Importer: Hellenic Rug Imports Inc., of Brooklyn, N.Y.

Hazard: The large rugs fail to meet the federal mandatory standard for flammability under the Flammable Fabrics Act and could ignite, presenting a risk of burn injuries. The smaller size rugs are missing labels identifying them as flammable.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall includes only beige and champagne leather shag rugs with Hellenic's name on the label. Large sizes include 5-feet by 8-feet and 8-feet by 11-feet and small-size rugs include 3-feet 5-inches by 5-feet 5-inches, 2-feet by 3-feet and 2-feet by 8-feet. A label on the rugs reads, "Hellenic Rug Imports, Inc."

Sold Through: Internet and catalog retailers nationwide from September 2002 through October 2005 for between $50 and $600, depending on the size.

Manufactured In: India

Remedy: Large Rugs - Consumers should stop using the rugs and contact the manufacturer to arrange for free replacement. Small Rugs - Consumers should keep these rugs away from sources of ignition and contact Hellenic Rug Imports to receive a label that complies with labeling requirements.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hellenic Rug Imports at (888)356-5284 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Consumers can also visit the firm's Web site at www.flokati.com