WASHINGTON — School officials and facility managers should immediately inspect outdoor stadium light poles made by Whitco because the poles can crack and fall, putting bystanders at risk, the government's safety agency said today.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said it knew of nine incidents in which poles installed from about 2000 through 2006 fell, including one pole that went through the roof of a school gymnasium. On two occasions, a pole fell onto outdoor bleachers.

The commission, which is investigating the poles, said it is not aware of any injuries.

Most incidents occurred in Texas, but the poles have been installed in other states, the CPSC said.

The safety agency said the Fort Worth, Texas, company is no longer in business.

Almost 50 Whitco poles that have not fallen had developed fractures near the weld that joins the pole to its base plate, the commission said. These poles were near or around school football stadiums and gyms.

The poles are constructed of steel with a galvanized coating. They can range in height from about 70 to 135 feet and weigh between 1 and 4 tons. They can be found on the grounds of schools, parks and outdoor stadiums.

The commission said the poles cannot be inspected by the eye or a magnifier alone. Professionals should examine the poles for signs of cracking or deterioration and have them repaired or replaced, the safety agency said.

Further details can be found at www.cpsc.gov, or by calling 800-638-2772.