"Creative Years" Blocks Toy Train Are Recalled

WASHINGTON -- "Creative Years" magnetic blocks and a magnetic toy train are being recalled voluntarily by the Associated Merchandising Corporation (AMC) of New York, N.Y., because small pieces may break off the toys, resulting in potential choking hazards to young children.

Two sets of "Creative Years" Magnetic Building Blocks are being recalled, a 16-piece set identified as Model 9516, and a 21-piece set, Model 9521. The blocks are made of plastic, come in various sizes and shapes of red, yellow, blue and green plastic with magnets on one or two sides. Some magnets and pieces of plastic may break off and become a choking hazard to young children.

Also recalled is "Creative Years" Mini-Magnet Auto Transport Train, Style 505 which is a wood locomotive containing five wooden flat cars, that carry automobiles on top of it. The smokestack of the locomotive may detach and may present a choking hazard to young children.

The toys themselves are not labeled, but the cardboard packaging carries the identification "Copyrighted and Distributed by A.M.C., New.York, N.Y., 10018." About.33,000 were sold nationally in department stores in 1987 and 1988. Neither AMC nor the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is aware of any injuries associated with the toys.

Consumers should immediately take the blocks or toy train away from children and return them to the store of purchase for a full refund of the purchase price. Consumers may also call AMC at 212-536-4338 for additional information about the recall.