Lead paint prompts children's karaoke machine recall

WASHINGTON (AP) _ Wal-Mart is recalling about 220,000 children's karaoke machines over concerns about lead paint on the control buttons, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced Wednesday.

Wednesday, April 13th 2005, 12:15 pm

By: News On 6

WASHINGTON (AP) _ Wal-Mart is recalling about 220,000 children's karaoke machines over concerns about lead paint on the control buttons, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced Wednesday.

Bentonville, Ark.-based Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has reported no injuries as a result of the paint, the commission said.

Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation, the CPSC noted.

The recall affects the Nu-tronix Karaoke Cassette Player and Recorder with digital radio and alarm features. The gray and purple machine, which reads ``Nu-tronix'' on the front, comes with a microphone and two cassette tapes. The paint on the five control buttons of the player contain lead.

The karaoke machines, made in China, were sold in Wal-Mart stores nationwide from June 2003 through March 2005 for about $20.

Consumers should return the machines to the nearest Wal-Mart to receive a refund, or call Wal-Mart at 800-925-6278 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. EDT for more details.