Electric "Worm Getter" Worm Probe Recalled By Six Retailers; Electrocution Hazard Cited

June 1, 1993 Release # 93-075 PRODUCT: Approximately 83,000 electric WG6-S and WG8-L "Worm Getter" worm probes, manufactured by Handy Marketing Company. The probes are used by fishermen to shock fishing worms to the soil's surface. The probes have a single energized metal rod, enclosed in a white plastic, spring- activated guard on one end and a black plastic bicycle grip on the other end. The affected probes were sold by Kmart, Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, Fishing Hot Spots, the Sportsman's Guide, and Gander Mountain. PROBLEM: CPSC is aware of more than 30 deaths involving functionally-identical worm probes. Consumers have been electrocuted by contacting the exposed metal shafts and shocked by touching the ground in the vicinity of the probe. WHAT TO DO: Owners of affected worm probes should stop using the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you purchased a probe from a retailer not listed, contact the company and inform CPSC at 1-800-638-2772 to help identify other possible retailers. If you are not sure where the probe was purchased, you are advised to destroy the probe. WASHINGTON, DC -- CPSC, six retailers today announced the recall of WG6-S and WG8-L electric "Worm Getter" worm probe models due to the potential electric shock and electrocution hazard. Approximately 83,000 worm probes were manufactured by the Handy Marketing Company, Grand Rapids, MI and sold from 1980 through 1992. The worm probes sold for about $11 to $28 each. Electric worm probes are used by fishermen to shock fishing worms to the soil surface. The WG6-S and WG8-L electric Worm Getter models have a single energized metal rod. The probes are energized by household electricity at line voltage, typically 110 to 120 volts alternating current. The metal rod of the probe is designed to be inserted into the ground with one or more extension cords connecting it to an electrical receptacle. The Handy Marketing Company is now out of business and is unable to participate