The Consumer and Competition Division, in concurrence with the Market Surveillance Directorate, has warned that unsafe trailing sockets have been found on the market.

The model numbers of the socket outlets are EK-03, EK-04, EK-05 and EK-06. The marking on both the multiple sockets and their packing is EMKAY Japan.

The multiple socket outlets, the adjoining cables and the three-pin plugs are all grey in colour and have independent switches with indicator lights.

The danger posed by the trailing sockets lies in the fact that they lack the earth leads and only the live and neutral connections are extended between the three-pin plugs and the socket outlets, the division said. Anybody who has purchased any of the units should stop using the trailing socket immediately and return it to the retailer from where the unit was purchased or to the importer - KTA Wholesale Ltd, 97, St Joseph Street, Pietà (tel: 2125 5519).

The importer has recalled most of the units but some trailing sockets have not been returned by consumers.

In case of any difficulties the consumers can contact the Consumer and Competition Division on 2144 6250/5.