Target recalls 447,000 Embark Resistance Cords and Cord Kits because of incidents causing blindness

Target Corporation along with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC), announced Thursday a recall of about 447,000 Embark Resistance Cords and Cord Kits.

The CSPC is urging all consumers of this product to stop using it immediately because a black plastic ball attached to the resistance cord's door anchor can unexpectedly snap and strike the user in the face and eyes.

According to the CSPC, Target has received three reports of incidents in which consumers were struck in the eye by the exercise tool -- two of which resulted in permanent blindness.

This recall involves the Embark brand resistance cords and cord kits listed below:

• Embark Light (tension) Resistance Cord (green)
• Embark Medium (tension) Resistance Cord (blue)
• Embark Heavy (tension) Resistance Cord (black)
• Embark Resistance Cord kit (set of 3 cords in green/blue/black stored in a mesh bag)

These products were sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide and Target.com from July 2009 through August 2011 for between $10 and $20. The resistance bands are made of green, blue or black rubber with black foam handles and a door attachment. A strap of nylon webbing is looped onto the band with a plastic ball attached. "Embark" is printed on either the black strap attached to the foam handle or on the middle of the rubber cord itself.

For additional information about the recall, CSPC is asking consumers to contact Target Guest Relations at 800-440-0680 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. (central time) Monday through Friday, or by visiting www.target.com .