Confirming Stereotypes

When I moved in September, I signed up for one of those deals where you sign up for extra high speed internet and they give you a computer. (Or maybe I have to pay an extra $5 a month for the computer, but it still works out to a good deal, if it's a computer that you want.)

The computer arrived last week. I set it up and browsed the manual and found this warning:

"WARNING: Handling the cord on this product or cords associated with accessories sold with this product will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling."

Then I looked at the label attached to the power cord. It said, "Made in China." I try not to believe stereotypes, but Chinese manufacturers are making it difficult. At least they give warnings when they sell lead products to adults.

Or does lead only cause cancer and birth defects in California? In that case, I'm safe.