This week in safety: Recalls and a snow blower warning

For years, almost all gas snow blowers have included a handlebar lever that helps protect hands and fingers by stopping the snow-scooping auger when the lever is released. An exception: the Toro CCR Powerlite 38182, a small, $440 model that Toro has sold under different names since the 1980s. Although the 38182 and similar 38172 models were recently discontinued, approximately 4,000 units were available this season in stores and online, on Toro's Web site and elsewhere.

We believe the CCR Powerlite machines pose the same safety concerns as earlier versions and have given them our "Don't Buy: Safety Risk" judgment. We've also notified the Consumer Product Safety Commission and are asking for an investigation. If you already own the 38182, similar 38172, or earlier CR20E or CCR Powerlite, be sure to shut off the engine before clearing a clog. Use a tool or broom handle to clear any clogs, as you would with any snow blower.

Never step away while the machine is running. And keep children and pets far away while you're using it.

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