HOMEDICS RECALLS HEATING PADS

HoMedics is recalling nearly 300,000 of its heating pads. Several models are being recalled.

The products were produced in 2001 and subsequently shipped to retailers in 2001 and 2002, the firm said Feb. 9.

Some of the devices contained an inadequate connector crimp, which can lead to "a high resistance connection that generated excessive heat, thereby posing a risk of burn injuries, fire or damage to the heating pad itself or to materials (like bedding and furniture) that could come into contact with the pad," according to a recall notice posted on the FDA's website.

"HoMedics has received eight reports of minor or first degree burns associated with the use of the heating pads and five additional reports of minor or first degree burns possibly related to the use of the heating pads, as well as reports of property damage," the notice said.

The firms' recall notices can be viewed at www.homedics.com/MediaCenter/PressRelease.aspx?id=90&cat=prp (http://www.homedics.com/MediaCenter/PressRelease.aspx?id=90&cat=prp).