Saturday, November 19, 2005

Oops, Should Have Read The Instructions

Consumer product warnings are showing up on just about everything you buy today. Of course, it’s meant to protect the consumer from possible harm if the product is used or handled improperly. Probably more so to protect the manufacturer from lawsuits, though. But in the process of protecting themselves their warnings border on the absurd. For example:

  • "Do not drive with sunshield in place" - On a cardboard sunshield for automobiles
  • "Do not use while sleeping or unconscious" - On a hand-held massaging device
  • "Do not use orally after using rectally" - In the instructions for a thermometer
  • "Do not use as ear plugs" - On a package of silly putty
  • "This product not intended for use as a dental drill" - On an electric rotary tool
  • "Caution: Remove infant before folding for storage" - On a portable stroller

The last one is my favorite.

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