OTHER NEWS - May 16, 1996

Government Recalls 3 Million Hammocks: The Consumer Product Safety Commission said that since 1984, at least 12 children ages 5 through 17 have been strangled and two others injured after they became entangled in lightweight mini-hammocks. These hammocks are made without spreader bars to hold them and can twist around the neck of a child swinging in or climbing in or out of one. The commission said the hammocks should be taken to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement. If the maker or seller cannot be identified, the hammock should be destroyed. The 10 makers and importers participating in the recall have agreed to sell only mini-hammocks with spreader bars, the commission said. Of Southland companies, E-Z Sales of Gardena is offering replacement mini-hammocks with spreader bars or larger hammocks, and Standard Sales of Los Angeles is offering full refunds.