A problem with the rubber handles poses a drowning hazard
of ConsumerAffairs
Aqua Lung America of Vista, CA, is recalling about 110,000 buoyancy compensators with SureLock II weight pocket handles.
The rubber handles can detach as divers are trying to remove the weight pockets to rise to the surface in an emergency, posing a drowning hazard. The company is aware of 236 reports of handles detaching from the weight pockets. There are no reported injuries.
This recall involves all Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators with SureLock II rubber handles attached to weight pockets, including the following models: Axiom, Axiom i3, Balance, Black Diamond, Dimension, Libra, Lotus, Pearl, Pearl i3, Pro LT, Pro QD, Pro QDi3 and Zuma buoyancy compensators.
The SureLock II handles are gray rubber and measure about 2 inches tall by 4 inches wide. The buoyancy compensator’s model name is embroidered on the inside back pad or the weight pocket’s right lobe. “SureLock” is molded into the back of the weight pocket.
The buoyancy compensators with the weight pockets, manufactured in China and Mexico, were sold at sporting goods and scuba diving stores nationwide from September 2008, through September 2012, for between $460 and $700.
Consumers should stop using the product and return the two weight pockets to an authorized Aqua Lung dealer to receive a free inspection and free replacement for recalled weight pocket handles.
Consumers may contact Aqua Lung toll-free at (855) 355-7170 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.