Summer fun is the stuff of which a lot of memories are made and preserved in digital glory with the trusty point-and-shoot; Dad posing as the Steak Master beside the smoking backyard grill, the kids on the swing set or in the backyard inflatable pool, the summer league kids' sports teams at play, and especially, the last-minute vacation before school starts in less than a month -- and woe betide the one who was supposed to pack the camera, but forgot. Of course, phone cams will do in a pinch, but for some, they just don't have the same pinache as a "real" camera. Nothing makes one feel like the official family photographer quite like all those different knobs and settings on a camera that feels more substantial in the hands than a smart phone. However, if that camera is an Olympus VG-170, bought between September of 2013 and December 2014, the amateur family photographer might be in for a shock - literally. Olympus has discovered an improperly installed part that could touch the camera's circuit board and give the user a shock.
While there have been no incidents or injuries reported in the U.S., Olympus has nevertheless issued a recall for these cameras, which were sold at HHGregg Appliance Inc. stores and online at www.hhgregg.com, for about $120 each. The VG-170 measures about 4 by 2.5 by 1 inches, weighs a little over five ounces, and comes in white, black or red. “VG 170” is printed on the top of the camera, on the side opposite the shutter button. “Olympus” is printed on the upper right hand corner of the front of the camera,“5 X Wide” is printed on lower left hand corner of the front of the camera. The camera has a three-inch digital LCD screen on the back. Consumers who have one of these cameras should stop using them immediately and contact Olympus about a free inspection and repair. Contact Olympus by phone at (800) 622-6372 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.getolympus.com. Look under "Support" and click on “Support by Product." Information is listed on the right hand side. The cameras were manufactured in China and imported by Olympus America Inc., of Center Valley, PA. Have fun, enjoy the rest of summer and stay safe!
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