CPSC Recall in 1999: CPSC & Montgomery Wards Recall Boys Jackets and Sweatshirts

Updated on March 25, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 1999.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 00-010b

Date: October 31, 1999

Product Name: "North West Blue" boys hooded jackets and sweatshirts

Recall Description:

PRODUCT: Boys Jackets and Sweatshirts: Montgomery Ward, of Chicago, Ill., is recalling about 780 boys hooded jackets and sweatshirts sold under the brand name North West Blue. The jackets and sweatshirts being recalled have the following identification numbers printed on the care label: "RN90866" or "RN81862". The garments are made in Nepal or Pakistan from 100 percent cotton in sizes small through large. The sweatshirt is style RN 90866, which comes in navy or olive. This is a pullover style sweatshirt with a zipper front pouch pocket and elbow pads. The jacket is style RN 81862, which comes in khaki, navy, olive or natural with stripes on the chest and sleeves. This is a zip front jacket made from cotton canvas with a fleece hood. "North West Blue" is on a sewn-in label at the neck of both garment styles. Montgomery Ward stores nationwide sold the garments from August 1999 to October 1999 for about $20. PROBLEM: The jackets and sweatshirts have hood drawstrings. Children can get entangled and strangle in the drawstrings that catch on playground equipment, fences or tree branches. Since 1985, CPSC knows of 16 deaths from neck/hood drawstrings. To help prevent children from strangling by their clothing drawstrings, in 1996 CPSC issued guidelines for drawstrings on children's outerwear, which were subsequently incorporated into a voluntary standard. For jackets and sweatshirts, CPSC recommends that drawstrings be completely removed and that alternate closures, such as snaps, buttons, Velcro or elastic be used. Montgomery Ward had been adhering to the voluntary standard and has implemented procedures to prevent future errors. INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported. WHAT TO DO: Stop wearing the jackets and sweatshirts. Either remove the drawstrings from the hood or discard or destroy these products.

Hazard Description:

The jackets and sweatshirts have hood drawstrings. Children can get entangled and strangle in the drawstrings that catch on playground equipment, fences or tree branches.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Dispose

Units: About 780

Incidents:

None reported.

Sold At:

Montgomery Ward stores nationwide sold the garments from August 1999 to October 1999 for about $20.

Manufactured In:

Nepal or Pakistan