In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), GE Home Electric Products, Inc. is announcing the recall of about 9,100 under-cabinet fluorescent light fixtures. These fixtures were improperly assembled and could present a serious electric shock hazard to consumers.

The problem lights are GE "Ultra Thin Line" 12-inch and 24-inch direct wire, fluorescent under-cabinet fixtures. They are directly wired into the electrical system of the house. Light fixtures plugged into wall sockets are not included in this recall. All of the problem fixtures are white, and there is no writing on the outside of the fixture. Before examining fixtures the electrical supply should be shut-off at the breaker. Under the plastic bulb guard, "GE Lighting" and the model number are written on a sticker. The model numbers subject to this recall are 23039, 27278, 23045 and 27281. These fixtures would not be identified in the course of a standard home inspection due to the necessity of shutting down portions of the electrical system at the breakers.

The subject light fixtures may have been sold in this area by Home Depot or Payless Cashways between February 1998 and April 1999 for about $35. Consumers with these recalled light fixtures should call GE Home Electric Products at 1-800-517-9602 to have a qualified electrician come out to replace the light fixture(s).