Recall Of 40,000 Sweatshirts Announced Due To Potential Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 15)-- About 40,000 recreational sweatshirts made in China and distributed nationally by a New York importer are being recalled because they fail to meet federal flammability standards.

The recall is being conducted by the importer, Grace International Apparel, Inc., of New York City, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The garments were distributed between June and October, 1980.

Each sweatshirt was manufactured with a snapped inner surface, a hood, a zipper and a drawstring; tests showed that the inner surfaces of the sweatshirts are too flammable. A label sewn into each sweatshirt reads "Made in the People's Republic of China CA VA." A second label also is attached to each sweatshirt which reads "CA VA *** A product of G.I.A.I., 350 Fifth Ave."

The garments were distributed throughout the United States through 20 direct consignees based in California, Georgia, Florida, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. One of these was a large New York City-based chain of stores, Korvettes, which no longer is in business.

Consumers are being advised to return the garments to the store from which they purchased them to obtain full refunds.

In the case of sweatshirts purchased from Korvettes, consumers should mail them directly to Grace International Apparel, Inc., Room 7401, Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York, 10001. The company has agreed to refund the purchase price ($5.99) plus any appropriate shipping charges.