In February, Microsoft announced a recall concerning its video game consol Xbox. The recall covers the power cords that came with and connect to the video game system that were purchased before Oct. 23, 2003.

Microsoft discovered that the power cords could lead to electrical fires when the Xbox is left on for long periods of time. To determine if you have one of the systems that is involved with this recall, simply look at the bottom of your Xbox unit and check the manufacturing date. Only Xbox systems manufactured before Oct. 23, 2003, need to have there power cords replaced. If your Xbox system was made on or after Oct. 23, 2003, then the recall does not apply.

Joseph Mealy, an employee at the video game retail store GameStop in Bakersfield said, “From my experience with Microsoft they are usually pretty good about taking care of people. One of the people I know sent out for an Xbox cord and they (Microsoft) said it would take 6-8 weeks to get it, but he got it in three days.”

Those who do qualify for the recall can ether go to www.Xbox.com and click on the power cord replacement link or call 1-866-271-0450 if you are unable to access the

Web site.

Microsoft will provide the replacement cord free of charge and you won’t have to mail back your old power cord. According to Microsoft, after ordering the replacement power cord it should take about to take 2-4 weeks for the new power cord to arrive. Until then Microsoft, recommends that you turn off the Xbox when it is not in use.